Variable speed Steering box for '81 - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Hazieview · 11-06-2010, 02:08 AM

I found this variable speed steering box and I was thinking about putting it in my '81 chevy two wheel drive shortbed. What do you guys think?

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/AGR-204317/

Brand AGR Performance
Manufacturer's Part Number 204317
Part Type Steering Boxes
Product Line AGR Performance Super Box 2 Steering Boxes
Summit Racing Part Number AGR-204317

Steering Box Style Front steer
Steering Box Type Power assist
Steering Ratio 13-16:1
Steering Box Material Cast iron
Steering Box Finish Natural
Mounting Bracket Included Yes
Pitman Arm Included No
Quantity Sold individually.

These AGR Performance Super Box 2 steering boxes are nearly identical in design, performance, and brute force to the Super Box 1, but they're engineered for the vehicle used as a daily driver. They have a firmer valving and appropriate ratio gearing for better handling and drivability at highway speeds.

Warranty

Loading...

Restrorob · 11-06-2010, 04:31 AM

I thought about a close ratio box for my 74 some years back, It's not listed as fitting later than 76. Wonder what aftermarket crossover steering is ?

Quote:

Universal No
Make CHEVROLET
Model C10 PICKUP
Beginning Year 1968
Ending Year 1976
Drivetrain 2WD
Application Notes Fits model with after market crossover steering only.

Hazieview · 11-06-2010, 04:59 PM

Never heard of close ratio. Is that the same as variable speed?

I was just wondering if anyone has the variable speed and what they thought of this particular steering box.

Anyone have a variable speed steering box? I'd like to replace mine before I put my engine in.

menace121978 · 11-06-2010, 09:03 PM

thats a nice piece!

i'd just like to know what the difference is between the 81+ and the 76-80?? thought they would be the same

*78 Chevyrado* · 11-06-2010, 09:16 PM

I've heard of variable speed power steering pumps but not variable speed steering boxes. What is the purpose exactly? Sounds interesting.

I googled variable speed steering boxes but it came up with absolutely nothing useful as far as explaining what is is and why one would want it.

menace121978 · 11-06-2010, 09:21 PM

its not a variable speed... its a variable ratio. basically meaning it turns quicker than the stock gear box.

Big Port Jimmy 6 · 11-06-2010, 10:20 PM

Wouldn't a variable ratio box turn "slower" in the center and "faster" toward each lock. That would give you good road feel and still be easy to park. Jay

80SPORT · 11-06-2010, 10:48 PM

73-79 boxes interchange;80-87 interchange

The difference is in the hose fittings

2WD and 4WD are different

The chevy service manual shows variable ratio box as standard equipment

Ratio is16:1 to 13:1

Restrorob · 11-07-2010, 09:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by menace121978

its not a variable speed... its a variable ratio. basically meaning it turns quicker than the stock gear box.

This is what I meant by close ratio, I owned a couple Cameros and loved the tight steering. My EuroSport has a tight ratio rack in it as well....

Sooo, Does anyone know what this is about "Fits model with after market crossover steering only" ?

blazinzuk · 11-07-2010, 12:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Restrorob

This is what I meant by close ratio, I owned a couple Cameros and loved the tight steering. My EuroSport has a tight ratio rack in it as well....

Sooo, Does anyone know what this is about "Fits model with after market crossover steering only" ?

Thats for 4x4 guys mostly with lifts, you change the push pull steering to a more conventional side to side steering.

It requires an arm that bolts the the top of the passenger side knuckle and a new drag link, you have to use a steering box from a 2wd since the 4x4 boxes swing front to back not side to side.

It improves steering geometry for a lifted truck

**N2TRUX** · 11-07-2010, 01:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Restrorob

... My EuroSport has a tight ratio rack in it as well....

Are we still talking about steering here?

Hazieview · 11-08-2010, 07:16 AM

So is the steering box I listed a pretty good one? Is it a good price?

Hazieview · 11-09-2010, 10:07 AM

bump

menace121978 · 11-09-2010, 10:37 AM

yes its a good one. i plan on going with the same one if i don't get a drop member. as for price... idk, i haven't done any real shopping for one yet

dropd80s · 11-09-2010, 10:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 80SPORT

73-79 boxes interchange;80-87 interchange

The difference is in the hose fittings

2WD and 4WD are different

The chevy service manual shows variable ratio box as standard equipment

Ratio is16:1 to 13:1

From what 80SPORT posted it looks like its the same ratio as stock.

Hazieview · 11-10-2010, 09:42 AM

Now I'm confused...?

So is this a stock replacement steering box? Does anyone know for sure what the stock steering box ratio is?

Big Port Jimmy 6 · 11-10-2010, 05:54 PM

The agr site recommends a diffeernt box for 2wd street driven trucks. The one that mentions cross steering is for 4wd lifted and rock crawlers.

http://www.agrperformance.com/catalo...,GMC&model=105

204352 is the #

draggin86 · 11-10-2010, 06:01 PM

I have this box on my truck i am now but i got a drop member so i think dennis is going to try and steal it from me lol!

anyways its a nice piece but i have yet to drive with it!

Hazieview · 11-11-2010, 07:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Big Port Jimmy 6

The agr site recommends a diffeernt box for 2wd street driven trucks. The one that mentions cross steering is for 4wd lifted and rock crawlers.

http://www.agrperformance.com/catalo...,GMC&model=105

204352 is the #

the 204252 seems to be the same steering box...
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/AGR-204352/

Brand AGR Performance
Manufacturer's Part Number 204352
Part Type Steering Boxes
Product Line AGR Performance Super Box 2 Steering Boxes
Summit Racing Part Number AGR-204352

Steering Box Style Front steer
Steering Box Type Power assist
Steering Ratio 13-16:1
Steering Box Material Cast iron
Steering Box Finish Natural
Mounting Bracket Included Yes
Pitman Arm Included No
Quantity Sold individually.
Notes Fits models with aftermarket crossover steering.

These AGR Performance Super Box 2 steering boxes are nearly identical in design, performance, and brute force to the Super Box 1, but they're engineered for the vehicle used as a daily driver. They have a firmer valving and appropriate ratio gearing for better handling and drivability at highway speeds.

Hazieview · 11-13-2010, 10:36 PM

I'm getting pretty desperate here....

What should I do about the steering box? I would like to upgrade the steering but every corner I turn comes up wrong... Help!

Anybody?

79gmcc15 · 11-14-2010, 04:59 AM

Call up red head steering in Seattle area. One of the best places to go to. Its well known here on the site.
Posted via Mobile Device

shenk10 · 11-29-2010, 04:16 PM

is this a direct replacement? pitman arm the same and everything?

**Captkaos** · 11-30-2010, 03:26 PM

The AGR steering boxes are just rebuilt steering boxes, there is nothing special about them over stock. Same variable ratio, same unit. I got one about 10 years ago, if you can get a rebuilt unit cheaper, buy it. When I got mine they were much cheaper than they are now, and the difference is as what is listed. the fittings.

skytop · 05-13-2017, 08:01 PM

A litttle late to this thread party... but I installed this variable ratio super box in my F100. Never have I had so much improvement in driveability and increase in driving pleasure as what the super box provide to my F100.
The ease of steering was dramatically improved, the tracking on center was precise and accurate. Making turns was so much faster and controllable.

This variable ratio super box is a WIN-WIN for anyone making the installation in their truck. Yes, it is THAT good.

Also, ignore what the previous post stated about the AGR box. He is 100% WRONG!

11-06-2010, 02:08 AM	#1
Hazieview Building Dreams out of Dimes! Join Date: May 2005 Location: Bonham, Tx Posts: 892	Variable speed Steering box for '81 I found this variable speed steering box and I was thinking about putting it in my '81 chevy two wheel drive shortbed. What do you guys think? http://www.summitracing.com/parts/AGR-204317/ Brand AGR Performance Manufacturer's Part Number 204317 Part Type Steering Boxes Product Line AGR Performance Super Box 2 Steering Boxes Summit Racing Part Number AGR-204317 Steering Box Style Front steer Steering Box Type Power assist Steering Ratio 13-16:1 Steering Box Material Cast iron Steering Box Finish Natural Mounting Bracket Included Yes Pitman Arm Included No Quantity Sold individually. These AGR Performance Super Box 2 steering boxes are nearly identical in design, performance, and brute force to the Super Box 1, but they're engineered for the vehicle used as a daily driver. They have a firmer valving and appropriate ratio gearing for better handling and drivability at highway speeds. Warranty Loading...

11-06-2010, 04:59 PM	#3
Hazieview Building Dreams out of Dimes! Join Date: May 2005 Location: Bonham, Tx Posts: 892	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 Never heard of close ratio. Is that the same as variable speed? I was just wondering if anyone has the variable speed and what they thought of this particular steering box. Anyone have a variable speed steering box? I'd like to replace mine before I put my engine in.

11-06-2010, 09:03 PM	#4
menace121978 Registered User Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: orangevale, ca Posts: 3,626	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 thats a nice piece! i'd just like to know what the difference is between the 81+ and the 76-80?? thought they would be the same __________________ "Dennis the Menace" 1978 Silverado (2wd, 1/2 ton, short bed)complete nut & bolt frame off restomod LQ9/4L80E MY LS SWAP/FRAME OFF BUILD BOOK 2006 TBSS way too much to list

11-06-2010, 09:16 PM	#5
78 Chevyrado Account Suspended Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Unnapreciative, Trollville Posts: 2,079	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 I've heard of variable speed power steering pumps but not variable speed steering boxes. What is the purpose exactly? Sounds interesting. I googled variable speed steering boxes but it came up with absolutely nothing useful as far as explaining what is is and why one would want it.

11-06-2010, 09:21 PM	#6
menace121978 Registered User Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: orangevale, ca Posts: 3,626	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 its not a variable speed... its a variable ratio. basically meaning it turns quicker than the stock gear box. __________________ "Dennis the Menace" 1978 Silverado (2wd, 1/2 ton, short bed)complete nut & bolt frame off restomod LQ9/4L80E MY LS SWAP/FRAME OFF BUILD BOOK 2006 TBSS way too much to list

11-06-2010, 10:20 PM	#7
Big Port Jimmy 6 Addicted to Rust Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Abbeville SC Posts: 1,030	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 Wouldn't a variable ratio box turn "slower" in the center and "faster" toward each lock. That would give you good road feel and still be easy to park. Jay __________________ Current trucks: (48 GMC100 320 inliner) Gone (48 Suburban in pieces) Sold 87 GMC CCSB 5.3 4l60E Daily Driver ECTA National record holder XO/PP We never really grow up, we just learn how to act in public.

11-06-2010, 10:48 PM	#8
80SPORT Registered User Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: red deer alberta Posts: 777	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 73-79 boxes interchange;80-87 interchange The difference is in the hose fittings 2WD and 4WD are different The chevy service manual shows variable ratio box as standard equipment Ratio is16:1 to 13:1

11-08-2010, 07:16 AM	#12
Hazieview Building Dreams out of Dimes! Join Date: May 2005 Location: Bonham, Tx Posts: 892	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 So is the steering box I listed a pretty good one? Is it a good price?

11-09-2010, 10:07 AM	#13
Hazieview Building Dreams out of Dimes! Join Date: May 2005 Location: Bonham, Tx Posts: 892	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 bump

11-09-2010, 10:37 AM	#14
menace121978 Registered User Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: orangevale, ca Posts: 3,626	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 yes its a good one. i plan on going with the same one if i don't get a drop member. as for price... idk, i haven't done any real shopping for one yet __________________ "Dennis the Menace" 1978 Silverado (2wd, 1/2 ton, short bed)complete nut & bolt frame off restomod LQ9/4L80E MY LS SWAP/FRAME OFF BUILD BOOK 2006 TBSS way too much to list

11-10-2010, 09:42 AM	#16
Hazieview Building Dreams out of Dimes! Join Date: May 2005 Location: Bonham, Tx Posts: 892	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 Now I'm confused...? So is this a stock replacement steering box? Does anyone know for sure what the stock steering box ratio is?

11-10-2010, 05:54 PM	#17
Big Port Jimmy 6 Addicted to Rust Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Abbeville SC Posts: 1,030	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 The agr site recommends a diffeernt box for 2wd street driven trucks. The one that mentions cross steering is for 4wd lifted and rock crawlers. http://www.agrperformance.com/catalo...,GMC&model=105 204352 is the # __________________ Current trucks: (48 GMC100 320 inliner) Gone (48 Suburban in pieces) Sold 87 GMC CCSB 5.3 4l60E Daily Driver ECTA National record holder XO/PP We never really grow up, we just learn how to act in public. Last edited by Big Port Jimmy 6; 11-10-2010 at 05:55 PM. Reason: bad link

11-10-2010, 06:01 PM	#18
draggin86 Registered User Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: Folsom, Ca Posts: 573	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 I have this box on my truck i am now but i got a drop member so i think dennis is going to try and steal it from me lol! anyways its a nice piece but i have yet to drive with it!

11-13-2010, 10:36 PM	#20
Hazieview Building Dreams out of Dimes! Join Date: May 2005 Location: Bonham, Tx Posts: 892	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 I'm getting pretty desperate here.... What should I do about the steering box? I would like to upgrade the steering but every corner I turn comes up wrong... Help! Anybody?

11-14-2010, 04:59 AM	#21
79gmcc15 Gettin It One Pice At A Time Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: everett, washington Posts: 2,688	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 Call up red head steering in Seattle area. One of the best places to go to. Its well known here on the site. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ RIP ELJAY Work In Progress 1979 GMC C1500 Trailering Special. Getting the truck done, one piece at a time. “You can tell a lot about a fellow’s character by his way of eating jellybeans.”Ronald Reagan “I don’t know the key to success but I know the key to failure is trying to please everybody.” Bill Cosby



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11-29-2010, 04:16 PM	#22
shenk10 Registered User Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: New Park, PA Posts: 312	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 is this a direct replacement? pitman arm the same and everything? __________________ Jordan 1972 Chevy K5 Blazer, 6" Lift, 35x13.5R15, 6.0/6L80E/NP205 1982 Chevy C10 SWB, 2006 LS2/4l70e In progress.... http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=439860

11-30-2010, 03:26 PM	#23
Captkaos www.73-87chevytrucks.com Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Birmingham, AL Posts: 6,935	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 The AGR steering boxes are just rebuilt steering boxes, there is nothing special about them over stock. Same variable ratio, same unit. I got one about 10 years ago, if you can get a rebuilt unit cheaper, buy it. When I got mine they were much cheaper than they are now, and the difference is as what is listed. the fittings. __________________ Chris Lucas 1973 Chevy C-10 1978 GMC Jimmy (2WD) - SOLD 1987 R10 twin turbo LS 1991 R3500 SRW CrewCab 1985 K5 diesel swapped project 1989 K5 2WD conversion w/ Vette susp Project Captkaos Customs 73-87chevytrucks.com

05-13-2017, 08:01 PM	#24
skytop Registered User Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: FL Posts: 95	Re: Variable speed Steering box for '81 A litttle late to this thread party... but I installed this variable ratio super box in my F100. Never have I had so much improvement in driveability and increase in driving pleasure as what the super box provide to my F100. The ease of steering was dramatically improved, the tracking on center was precise and accurate. Making turns was so much faster and controllable. This variable ratio super box is a WIN-WIN for anyone making the installation in their truck. Yes, it is THAT good. Also, ignore what the previous post stated about the AGR box. He is 100% WRONG! __________________ 1972 C10 SWB, 1970 Corvette, 2017 Grand Sport Last edited by skytop; 05-13-2017 at 08:24 PM.

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