Power Steering Conversion Questions

[landy]

All, I recently purchased a '76 GMC High Sierra, stepside, shortbed 4x4 with, of all things, manual steering. I'd forgotten how hard it is to turn a manual steering truck with oversized tires!

I've read on here the parts that are needed to change to power steering, but wanted to confirm a few things. Other than some pump fitting differences, any year box and pump will work - '70s through '80s (with same square body style)?

I've found new Pitman arms for sale, but they all seem to be for trucks with lifts. If I do lift it, it wouldn't be more than 2 in. or so. Will an arm for a lifted truck work ok on a stock height truck? I'm assuming an arm for a 4 in lift wouldn't work on a stock height truck?

Thanks!

[KrazyRay]

All 4wd boxes 73-87 will work. They went from the compression style fittings to the o ring fittings in the late 70's. Used OEM pitman arms should be readily available. I have a few of them laying around.

[landy]

I haven't had any luck finding a used pitman arm, so if you'd to sell one, let me know.

Also, any need to a fluid cooler on these? My Ford came with a stock cooler on it.

[barry1982]

I swapped the power steering from an 83 4 x 4 onto a 77 years ago.
I got lucky, and found a "roll over" that a guy was parting out. Ripped off the steering box, PS pump, brackets , pulleys, basically everything I needed. Cheap too.... think he charged me $100 for everything. If you can't find a wreck, try posting a wanted add on Kijiji..... be surprised whats out there if you ask.