Source for new steering gear box?

[NC67Chev]

Originally Posted by DustyC10

Whats the difference in the 69-72 Power Steering boxes as apposed to a 67-68 steering box? (Wondering about putting power steering on my 67)

I upgraded my '67 to power steering several months ago, and I'm loving it. You will likely find that there is no dimple on your frame to accomodate the box, but there are a couple of options to get around that.

[DustyC10]

Originally Posted by NC67Chev

I upgraded my '67 to power steering several months ago, and I'm loving it. You will likely find that there is no dimple on your frame to accomodate the box, but there are a couple of options to get around that.

Ah, I figured it was something like that, guess I'll start doing some searching to see what guys are doing to solve that.

[NC67Chev]

Originally Posted by DustyC10

Ah, I figured it was something like that, guess I'll start doing some searching to see what guys are doing to solve that.

The solutions are basically two fold:
1) Heat the frame and dimple it with a BFH. This is how I ended up doing mine, and would recommend it over #2.
2) Use some form of spacer (1/4" is what you need) to make room for the box. I initially tried this, but did not like how the steering felt. It throws the sttering off center. The steering just felt a little twitchy to me. Some people sell brackets that you can use that will work great for getting the box to fit, but the steering will still be off center.

The other two things that have to be addressed; 1) The PS box will hit the radiator support, so you will have to trim that just a little bit and 2) The left bumper bracket will interfere with the PS box, so you will need to notch that a little also. Lots of people on here have done this conversion, so you will be able to find a lot of opinions/info to work with. Good luck!

[DustyC10]

Originally Posted by NC67Chev

The solutions are basically two fold:
1) Heat the frame and dimple it with a BFH. This is how I ended up doing mine, and would recommend it over #2.
2) Use some form of spacer (1/4" is what you need) to make room for the box. I initially tried this, but did not like how the steering felt. It throws the sttering off center. The steering just felt a little twitchy to me. Some people sell brackets that you can use that will work great for getting the box to fit, but the steering will still be off center.

The other two things that have to be addressed; 1) The PS box will hit the radiator support, so you will have to trim that just a little bit and 2) The left bumper bracket will interfere with the PS box, so you will need to notch that a little also. Lots of people on here have done this conversion, so you will be able to find a lot of opinions/info to work with. Good luck!

Easy enough... I am getting use to making a project out of little things... cab rust repair turned into a whole floor... motor swap turned into an LSx swap... finding a bed turned into taking the LWB and making it a SWB... but when it is done, it will have my touches on just about everything.

[CentralCoaster]

Originally Posted by Indyuke

Well... I was talking about a new '77 unit from the auto parts store. I think they're about $80-$90.

For $80ish it's not new, it's probably an overseas reman from who knows where, which I've read many horror stories about and a few good ones in my search. I've seen some other reman stuff from the local parts stores (aka foreign importers) and don't feel like taking any risks. Every time I try to save money I seem to regret it later.

That NOS GM link I posted would be a good idea though for someone converting a manual truck, as you'd need new lines anyways. Not sure about the input shaft diameter change. Maybe the guy was wrong, I didn't read that anywhere on here.

[ETsC10]

Originally Posted by CentralCoaster

...That NOS GM link I posted would be a good idea though for someone converting a manual truck, as you'd need new lines anyways. Not sure about the input shaft diameter change. Maybe the guy was wrong, I didn't read that anywhere on here.

I run a Red-Head (just installed my second one last year...
...after 12 years of daily driving) and they are a top drawer
rebuilder who really know their stuff.
IMHO, call them, tell them you chosen Wes to buy from
but would like their help with choosing what you need.
1-800-808-1148

BTW- "NOS" is not same as "New GM".
GM often sells the GM branding rights to aftermarket suppliers,
so you would never really know who built the unit nor their track
record.
Personally, I would rather see both Wes and Red-Head benefit
from the sale and you would get much more personalized service.

.

[CentralCoaster]

Well, I said NOS, that guy just said he bought out GM's stash. But yeah, I've seen that happen on other parts.

I did order from Wes's company online, didn't receive any sort of email confirmation though or tracking # or even a bill on my credit card. Will have to remember to call them tomorrow to see whatsup, or if there was a magical OK button I missed.

[CentralCoaster]

Arrgh! Ordered on the 8th and it's shipping today finally.

[CentralCoaster]

Put the redhead box in last night. So far so good!!!