Wanted some information on manual steering gears.

[Mr. McGuire]

I just wanted to get some information on different ratios on manual steering gears and which would be best. I'm sure I'd need one to replace my original for my build. The ratios I was asking about 16:1, 20:1, and 24:1. Heres a link of what I was looking at http://www.hotchkis.net/delphi-525-series-manual-steering-gear.html

[Chadman27]

I'm no guru by any means, but back in the day when I was doing research on my 2nd Gen steering box I would see 12:1 and 13:1... I believe non-WS6 cars came with a 14 or 15 to 1. My points being a 16, 20, and especially 24 to 1 may be several turns lock-to-lock. I only bring this up since you are posting in "Pro-Touring" forum. You may want to look into some quicker ratios. If I am off on this, someone please correct me, however, so I do not foster ignorance! :hammer:

[Chadman27]

Not sure if this is a 525, but here is more or less what I am referring to...

https://www.flamingriver.com/index.php/products/c0011/s0002/FR1560

[David Pozzi]

A manual steering gear is not good for Pro- Touring use. Why do you want a manual system? Is this a drag race car?

[Mr. McGuire]

David, no its going to be a touring car. I planned on switching things up with a 3rd gen camaro but this is what was offered from hotchkis. I feel like something with the steering needs to be done. I have a steering brace from UMI but thats about it for steering right now.

[Mr. McGuire]

David, no its going to be a touring car. I thought manual might help somewhat. I did some research the last couple days learned why that would be bad. Also couldn't find much on upgrading my steering so I thought of the other option.

[Rifleman_Racing]

David, no its going to be a touring car. I thought manual might help somewhat. I did some research the last couple days learned why that would be bad. Also couldn't find much on upgrading my steering so I thought of the other option.

If you car isnt a Z28, you can get the Z28 box. It has a really good feel to it, and is often used as a box to swap to for second gen camaros.

[Mr. McGuire]

Mine is a 1991 Z28. Yeah I know what you mean it is a good box feels great when cruising around. I just didn't know if it was enough to compete in an autocross event.

[a67]

If you haven't already, the best thing to do for 3rd gen steering is to use a solid u-jointed intermediate shaft. A modified Astro Van shaft will work, as well as a modified Express Van shaft.

Doing this gets rid of the sloppy rag joint on the stock set up.

Avoid the Jeep shafts as they have a soft rubber sleeve in them that has give in it.

Lastly, mileage dependent, remove the steering box and do a proper adjustment on it. Between the two it will feel like a completely different car.

Bob.

[Mr. McGuire]

Ok cool! I just did some research into this and came across this on another site http://www.thirdgen.org/techboard/suspension-chassis/359607-cheap-easy-u-joint.html . Thanks guys, appreciate the help! :)

[a67]

You're welcome, note that the shaft with all the pictures near the end of that thread is 90* off. I used one of those on my '92 3rd gen. Ended up buying a piece of double-D shaft to replace the stock one, while at the same time re-clocking the upper joint. Will also need to place a notch in the upper column shaft.

Note the last picture by posted by bowdayshush. The right hand u-joint goes to the steering column shaft. The through bolt is located differently then the 3rd gen through bolt. Need a small notch for it to clear the column shaft. I used a Dremal with a sanding drum to make the notch. Be sure to place a sheet of newspaper under that area to catch the filing.

Bob.

[a67]

Forgot an important add on, on the Astro/Safari vans, where the steering shaft exits the column into the engine compartment. There is a ball bearing; grab it, the shell, and retaining clip. Use it to replace the plastic bushing on your 3rd gen.

The wire retaining clip comes right off, then pull the assembly out of the outer column shell and off the shaft.

Note that when you grab a steering shaft from the yard, also get the two bolts.

Bob.