front end upgrade

[ls1c10]

im installing a disc break 72 front cross member in a 65 truck and was wondering what people are doing for the steering? Do i use the 65 steering and just up grade the steering box or use all the 72 stuff. thanks

[markeb01]

I used the later power steering and bought an aftermarket steering column to make everything easy. I bought a Monte Carlo intermediate shaft and everything just bolted together. There are almost as many variations on how to do this as there are members on the forum.

[Solo2002]

I used 81 control arms,spindles,and brakes and used a later modle power steering box and got the brake booster and master cylinder off the same truck as the suspension all just fit rite together just had to extend the booster rod to meet the pedal
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[Captainfab]

I always recommend using the entire steering linkage from the donor truck. You will have to drill a couple holes to mount the newer style idler arm, but that way everything is of the same vintage. When it comes time to replace worn parts, there is no guessing on what parts application to ask for. Also I believe the later model tierods are a little heavier. At least they are on the '73+

[ls1c10]

thanks for all the info

[likaroc13]

well, i went the more confusing route

i had a '72 parts truck & used the control arms & spindles...i also bought a new '72 power steering gear box...and since i didn't have the '72 centerlink (& no one makes a new one), i just kept the '66 centerlink that was in good shape ....to do this, i have to run '66 outer tie rods (5/8" LH thread) @ the inner location, & i will have '72 outers (11/16" RH thread) in the outer location...you do this so that the threads will connect...& to make that connection, i'm using POL conversion tie rod sleeves....i also have a new '66 idler arm (no new holes needed), & the pitman arm is for a '72

big thanks to "lolife99" for helping me out with this....and according to him:

the 73-87 tie rods are the same 11/16 diameter as the 71-72 tie rods.
(the spindle end of the tie rods are different)

hope i didn't confuse you