L76 into 69 Firebird - Steering Joint(s) Replacment

[ModernMuseum]

I'm installing an L76 into a 69 firebird, coupled to a magnum T-56. Due to clearance issues with the oil pan hitting the center link (The engine hasn't arrived yet, so I don't know the exact amount of interference), I will supposedly have to replace the center link with a 68 Camaro center link. However, if I do this, that means I need to replace all the steering joints, pitman arm, etc.

This seems like a lot of work just for a little bit of interference. Would it be possible to take the steering link to a good machine shop and have them modify it (lengthen and put bends in it) to go around the oil pan? Does this seem like a logical solution?

I think all of my steering joints are new, so I don't feel like yanking them out. If I do end up having to pul them out, do I need one of those fork looking tools? I always heard that those tools damage joints when you remove them.

[oestek]

I'd wait 'till you get the engine to see the fit issue first, then maybe change the pan before all the steering...

[ModernMuseum]

How much do you estimate it would cost to modify a pan? A couple hundred bucks? If there are interference issues, I'm guessing I would just have to have a curved notch put it in and have the metal brazed in, right?

It does seem much more simple to modify the pan versus changing out on the steering links. I can't imagine the pan modification costing more than the steering links either.

[Ishmael]

There are all kinds of pans available. Check to see if this http://www.retrolsx.com/forums/showthread.php?t=111 would work for you. If not look around the oil pan section on that site.

[ModernMuseum]

Ishmael - thanks for the link. I'll have a look around if it comes to that. I took a closer look at the center link last night. It would be simple enough to modify since the middle portion is just a straight run of rod, but the correct pan would be even better.