close ratio power steering box / remote resevoir? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

mcmlxix · 10-01-2003, 10:56 AM

After driving the "new" 71 for a week, I want to find out what my options are for a close ratio power steering box? Who has one and where did it come from?

I was also thinking about a remote resevoir P/S pump for a small block. My P/S bracket is already cracked and needs to be replaced. If any one is running one on a small block, what did it come out of and where does the remote resevoir mount?

Thanks

Longhorn Man · 10-02-2003, 12:12 AM

I don't think you'll find a close ratio box. It's been said on here (And I don't know...just repeating) that car boxes don't fit, so you're stuck with truck items only.
As for the remote resivour, you could use the big block set up, but that would be expensive.

JayDubBlazer · 10-02-2003, 06:28 AM

Why would you want a remote resevior for you power steering other that is might look better? Could somebody educate me on this?

mcmlxix · 10-02-2003, 09:09 AM

I was just transfering Copperhead onto a VHS last night. He said he used a quick ratio gear box from ECE. Have to check that out!

There is really no other reason for a remote resevoir other then looks and maybe easier to fill depending on where you mount it. In a BBC it was probably a limited space issues but I dont know if there are brackets for a remote setup for a small block.

JayDubBlazer · 10-02-2003, 10:20 AM

Thanks

Hardrock2 · 10-03-2003, 06:08 AM

mcmixix,

If you are looking for a SBC P.S. pump with a remote res., try looking at the G-series vans from the mid '70's through the 'early '90's.
Most all V-8 vans (some 4.3's, too) have them.
The selection is pretty wide; flare fitting, o-ring fitting, single groove pulleys, double grove (with A/C) pulleys, serpentine belt pulleys ('88 or '89-up)

All are for long waterpump setups or serpentine belt, except for some VERY early units, ('70-'71, MAYBE! can't recall that far back.)

Mike

superchevy · 10-03-2003, 09:00 AM

Give AGR a call.
I put one of they're quick-ratio boxes on my '93, and it made a huge difference in handling and steering feel.
They might have one for a 67-72.
Here's a link:

http://www.agrperformance.com/catalo...05&product=121

Lobo'74 · 10-03-2003, 11:29 AM

My '67 came with '85 power steering installed. With that big stock steering wheel there is NO road feel and it smoothly glides along. I want more feel and a little more effort. Does the AGR super box do that? Their variable ratio is 16-13:1. Any idea what the stock ratio is?

Thanks for any info.

Hardrock2 · 10-03-2003, 02:19 PM

I might be wrong, but I thought the later OEM boxes were faster boxes (ratio).

I had two identically equipped trucks at one time, (a '76 and an '85) and the '76 was slow, while the '85 SEEMED noticably quicker.
Identical pumps, suspension, (stock) wheel/tire size, and a stock steering wheel.
Hmmm........., guess I could go compare my '72 with my '85 for "lock to lock" turns.
The older truck boxes just seem slow, even with a smaller wheel.

BTW, if you want more "road feel" or feedback, try swapping the
valve in the back of the pump.
Like maybe from a Z-28 or 'Vette pump. (may have to dig in the GM parts book for that!)

Mike

Lobo'74 · 10-03-2003, 10:54 PM

The valve in the back of the pump. I have to plead ignorance here. Which valve, and is the back of the pump the end farthest away from the driver - that is the end clesest to the front?

Bowtiefreak · 10-03-2003, 11:07 PM

Early Classic sells quick ratio boxes for our trucks as a direct bolt on. I put one on my 69 truck. I think it ran me $375.00 but not quite sure.
Bowtiefreak

Longhorn Man · 10-03-2003, 11:19 PM

I was asking about the valve deal...isn't it just the spring that needs chainged?
And would you be able to elaborate on this a bit more? I have a caddy pump in mine and I fear it will have no feel at all.

Hardrock2 · 10-04-2003, 01:29 AM

It's the valve in the back side of the pump where the high pressure line goes in. Looks like a big jam nut in the resivoir.
It may be hard for me to explain.
It's sort of a relief valve, or a by-pass type deal. Basically regulates the amount of driver input needed to get power assist.

The Caddys and big luxury cars have less driver, more assist, if that makes sense!

Performance cars have more "road feel" due to less sensitivity in the power steering.

Remember the big old boats that steered with one finger?

Compared to, say, a WS6 Trans-Am.

Different valving in the pumps. (along with high ratio box)

A valve spring swap might do the same thing, but I usually swap the whole assy. just to keep it all matched.

I've noticed high mile cars and trucks get "loose" steering as they age.
Along with worn front-end parts, tired pumps, soft hoses, and sloppy boxes, I'm sure the valving softens up to.
Kinda like hyd. shocks or struts, etc......they all wear out.

Mike

BTW, I stumbled across this info when the pump went south on my '74 Trans Am. I just grabbed a good used pump off of a Grand Prix and put it on. WAY DIFFERENT FEEL!!

The newer R&P cars are the same way. Most cars that have a performance option will list two racks....one standard..........one "high effort" performance rack.
Difference...............valving.

Hutch · 10-04-2003, 01:57 AM

mcmlxix
These guy's should be able to answer your questions:
http://www.powersteering.com/products/

Have fun

Longhorn Man · 10-05-2003, 01:35 PM

Hard rock...thanks. I've heard of being able to 'tune' the pump, but never any info.
I'll br printing this for referance.

Spoof · 10-05-2003, 07:51 PM

According to the above link it only requires a new gear and piston to convert to a 12:1 ratio. If a person knew which parts to order it would be possible to rebuilt your own steering box. There is comprehensive steering box overhaul chapter in the Hot Rod GMC pick-up repair manual, carried by some vendors.
I'd be willing to tackle it, especially since there'd be no need to convert fittings etc.
Anybody have the technical saavy to figure out which parts would be required?

Quote:

Along with worn front-end parts, tired pumps, soft hoses, and sloppy boxes, I'm sure the valving softens up to.

Were talking about trucks aging here right Hardrock2 ?

Hardrock2 · 10-05-2003, 10:29 PM

LOL!

Spoof
I figured somebody would catch that!!
(Although, I figured it would be Andy!!!)

Yeah, I imagine you could swap innards and do the same thing the guys at poweresteering.com are doing, but if you have ever had a P.S. box apart, you might decide to let the boys with the proper equipement (and product liability insurance) do it!

There has to be more than one ratio (sector and worm gear) that will fit in these truck boxes. You just have to find out which ones, and where they come from. Also, if there are any internal machining differences between applications.

A good stack of Saginaw reference material, and some trial and error could get you started.
I'd do some HEAVY research first, and then have at it, but that's just me. Don't think I could risk doing it on someone else's truck.

Alot of things go into a good handling truck. Steering ratio and "feedback" need to be balanced with other suspension components too. Tire size (height), spring rate, and sway bar dia.

I just put a tonner front bar on my '85 'Burb, and discovered it took a lesser degree of a turn at the steering wheel to make a corner.
Less body roll will let you take more of an advantage of your existing ratio. Shorter tires will add a little more, and so forth.

Mike

723/4tontank · 10-06-2003, 02:52 AM

mcmlxix,
My 72 has a remote resevoir and it is mounted to the drivers side front fender right behind the head light. I have a small block in it now, but it came stock with a 402 in it. Hope that helps a little.

10-01-2003, 10:56 AM	#1
mcmlxix Collector of Projects Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Las Vegas Posts: 3,106	close ratio power steering box / remote resevoir? After driving the "new" 71 for a week, I want to find out what my options are for a close ratio power steering box? Who has one and where did it come from? I was also thinking about a remote resevoir P/S pump for a small block. My P/S bracket is already cracked and needs to be replaced. If any one is running one on a small block, what did it come out of and where does the remote resevoir mount? Thanks __________________ Rich 1972 K5 Blazer CST Click HERE D60 BIG BRAKE UPGRADE Click HERE

10-02-2003, 06:28 AM	#3
JayDubBlazer go cyclones Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Ames, IA Posts: 1,885	Why would you want a remote resevior for you power steering other that is might look better? Could somebody educate me on this? __________________ Wes PROJECT OLE GREEN 1972 Blazer 4X4 350/700R4 2017 Silverado LT

10-02-2003, 09:09 AM	#4
mcmlxix Collector of Projects Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Las Vegas Posts: 3,106	I was just transfering Copperhead onto a VHS last night. He said he used a quick ratio gear box from ECE. Have to check that out! There is really no other reason for a remote resevoir other then looks and maybe easier to fill depending on where you mount it. In a BBC it was probably a limited space issues but I dont know if there are brackets for a remote setup for a small block. __________________ Rich 1972 K5 Blazer CST Click HERE D60 BIG BRAKE UPGRADE Click HERE

10-02-2003, 10:20 AM	#5
JayDubBlazer go cyclones Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Ames, IA Posts: 1,885	Thanks __________________ Wes PROJECT OLE GREEN 1972 Blazer 4X4 350/700R4 2017 Silverado LT

10-03-2003, 06:08 AM	#6
Hardrock2 A$$ deep into trucks Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Central Illinois,USA Posts: 249	mcmixix, If you are looking for a SBC P.S. pump with a remote res., try looking at the G-series vans from the mid '70's through the 'early '90's. Most all V-8 vans (some 4.3's, too) have them. The selection is pretty wide; flare fitting, o-ring fitting, single groove pulleys, double grove (with A/C) pulleys, serpentine belt pulleys ('88 or '89-up) All are for long waterpump setups or serpentine belt, except for some VERY early units, ('70-'71, MAYBE! can't recall that far back.) Mike __________________ hardrock2

10-02-2003, 12:12 AM	#2
Longhorn Man its all about the +6 inches Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Hilliard Ohio Posts: 2,693	I don't think you'll find a close ratio box. It's been said on here (And I don't know...just repeating) that car boxes don't fit, so you're stuck with truck items only. As for the remote resivour, you could use the big block set up, but that would be expensive.

10-03-2003, 09:00 AM	#7
superchevy Got big-block? Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Austin, Texas Posts: 2,453	Give AGR a call. I put one of they're quick-ratio boxes on my '93, and it made a huge difference in handling and steering feel. They might have one for a 67-72. Here's a link: http://www.agrperformance.com/catalo...05&product=121

10-03-2003, 11:29 AM	#8
Lobo'74 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Charlottesville, VA Posts: 404	Interested My '67 came with '85 power steering installed. With that big stock steering wheel there is NO road feel and it smoothly glides along. I want more feel and a little more effort. Does the AGR super box do that? Their variable ratio is 16-13:1. Any idea what the stock ratio is? Thanks for any info. __________________ "Truck" '67 small window '79 350 .030 over, LT1 "clone"

10-03-2003, 02:19 PM	#9
Hardrock2 A$$ deep into trucks Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Central Illinois,USA Posts: 249	I might be wrong, but I thought the later OEM boxes were faster boxes (ratio). I had two identically equipped trucks at one time, (a '76 and an '85) and the '76 was slow, while the '85 SEEMED noticably quicker. Identical pumps, suspension, (stock) wheel/tire size, and a stock steering wheel. Hmmm........., guess I could go compare my '72 with my '85 for "lock to lock" turns. The older truck boxes just seem slow, even with a smaller wheel. BTW, if you want more "road feel" or feedback, try swapping the valve in the back of the pump. Like maybe from a Z-28 or 'Vette pump. (may have to dig in the GM parts book for that!) Mike __________________ hardrock2

10-03-2003, 10:54 PM	#10
Lobo'74 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Charlottesville, VA Posts: 404	Hmmmmm The valve in the back of the pump. I have to plead ignorance here. Which valve, and is the back of the pump the end farthest away from the driver - that is the end clesest to the front? __________________ "Truck" '67 small window '79 350 .030 over, LT1 "clone"

10-03-2003, 11:07 PM	#11
Bowtiefreak Registered User Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: LeRoy, Mich. Posts: 854	Early Classic sells quick ratio boxes for our trucks as a direct bolt on. I put one on my 69 truck. I think it ran me $375.00 but not quite sure. Bowtiefreak __________________ 1968 Chevy C10 Short Fleetside/Wood floor ECE 4-6 Drop / 406 Small Block 1971 Chevelle 427 Big Block

10-03-2003, 11:19 PM	#12
Longhorn Man its all about the +6 inches Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Hilliard Ohio Posts: 2,693	I was asking about the valve deal...isn't it just the spring that needs chainged? And would you be able to elaborate on this a bit more? I have a caddy pump in mine and I fear it will have no feel at all.

10-04-2003, 01:29 AM	#13
Hardrock2 A$$ deep into trucks Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Central Illinois,USA Posts: 249	It's the valve in the back side of the pump where the high pressure line goes in. Looks like a big jam nut in the resivoir. It may be hard for me to explain. It's sort of a relief valve, or a by-pass type deal. Basically regulates the amount of driver input needed to get power assist. The Caddys and big luxury cars have less driver, more assist, if that makes sense! Performance cars have more "road feel" due to less sensitivity in the power steering. Remember the big old boats that steered with one finger? Compared to, say, a WS6 Trans-Am. Different valving in the pumps. (along with high ratio box) A valve spring swap might do the same thing, but I usually swap the whole assy. just to keep it all matched. I've noticed high mile cars and trucks get "loose" steering as they age. Along with worn front-end parts, tired pumps, soft hoses, and sloppy boxes, I'm sure the valving softens up to. Kinda like hyd. shocks or struts, etc......they all wear out. Mike BTW, I stumbled across this info when the pump went south on my '74 Trans Am. I just grabbed a good used pump off of a Grand Prix and put it on. WAY DIFFERENT FEEL!! The newer R&P cars are the same way. Most cars that have a performance option will list two racks....one standard..........one "high effort" performance rack. Difference...............valving. __________________ hardrock2 Last edited by Hardrock2; 10-04-2003 at 01:39 AM.

10-04-2003, 01:57 AM	#14
Hutch Registered User Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: Grapevine, Tx. Posts: 2,142	mcmlxix These guy's should be able to answer your questions: http://www.powersteering.com/products/ Have fun __________________ John Hutchison Grapevine,Texas 68 1/2 t swb 68 Mustang 69 Jaguar 71 1/2 t swb 88 Supra CompTs6m 93 Escort GT 2005 Corolla XRS

10-05-2003, 01:35 PM	#15
Longhorn Man its all about the +6 inches Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Hilliard Ohio Posts: 2,693	Hard rock...thanks. I've heard of being able to 'tune' the pump, but never any info. I'll br printing this for referance.



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10-05-2003, 10:29 PM	#17
Hardrock2 A$$ deep into trucks Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Central Illinois,USA Posts: 249	LOL! Spoof I figured somebody would catch that!! (Although, I figured it would be Andy!!!) Yeah, I imagine you could swap innards and do the same thing the guys at poweresteering.com are doing, but if you have ever had a P.S. box apart, you might decide to let the boys with the proper equipement (and product liability insurance) do it! There has to be more than one ratio (sector and worm gear) that will fit in these truck boxes. You just have to find out which ones, and where they come from. Also, if there are any internal machining differences between applications. A good stack of Saginaw reference material, and some trial and error could get you started. I'd do some HEAVY research first, and then have at it, but that's just me. Don't think I could risk doing it on someone else's truck. Alot of things go into a good handling truck. Steering ratio and "feedback" need to be balanced with other suspension components too. Tire size (height), spring rate, and sway bar dia. I just put a tonner front bar on my '85 'Burb, and discovered it took a lesser degree of a turn at the steering wheel to make a corner. Less body roll will let you take more of an advantage of your existing ratio. Shorter tires will add a little more, and so forth. Mike __________________ hardrock2

10-06-2003, 02:52 AM	#18
723/4tontank One ugly but fast truck Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Everett, Wa Posts: 104	mcmlxix, My 72 has a remote resevoir and it is mounted to the drivers side front fender right behind the head light. I have a small block in it now, but it came stock with a 402 in it. Hope that helps a little. __________________ 72 3/4 ton Fleetside. 468/th400. Motors in. Runs great! Will smoke the right rear all day long. Time for body work.

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