power steering box compatability...

[futura72]

I'm looking to upgrade my 72 with power steering. I have been given complete setup from a 77 chev. Will this be an easy bolt in or do i need to look for an earlier model box? Will i need to change the column length to switch over to power steering in any case?

[kwmech]

The column length is not really that much of an issue. As far as the box is concerned, it will bolt directly to the frame without any problem. You may want to check and confirm that the lines going to the box are for flared lines and not the 'O' ring style. Even if they are the O ring style, you can match up the pump really easy to get a high pressure line to fit.

[futura72]

Thanks for the education, I have a lot to learn. I have owned the truck for 16 years and am finally getting around to making it "my" truck.

[Huck]

Upgrading to a newer one, which will bolt up can also give you a close ratio PS which will make your steering feel more exact. When going newer, you do have to watch for the metric fittings. I forget which year they converted and which year give you the better gears so hang a bit while someone with more experience chimes in!

[Southpa]

My experience involved a 70 to 71 front end swap for the disc brakes. The 71I got the front end from was non-power steering and I found that the pitman arm splines ( where it fits onto the box) were different between power and "armstrong" steering. So make sure you grab the pitman off that '77 too, just in case.