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View Full Version : Astro hydro-boost units. Which one?



astroracer
05-22-2012, 05:27 PM
I am pulling all of the stuff together for the van's steering system.
I just picked up an '86 Chevy 1 ton hydroboost power steering pump and it is hanging on the front of the mock up block.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/MVC001Fvi-2.jpg
Tuff Stuff brackets. Bolted right up. I just need to get a pulley and a pressure fitting.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/MVC003Fvi-6.jpg

I have two Astro van boost units. One from a '95.
You can see it sticks straight out from the fire wall.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/MVC007Fvi-3.jpg
And one from a '98 which angles down at quite a steep pitch.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/MVC008Fvi-3.jpg
Is either one better then the other? I don't care either way as far as looks or fitment goes, they are both off Astro's so I know they fit, just wondering if, operationally, one is better than the other.
Paul, What do you think?

sgernon
05-22-2012, 06:50 PM
I used the straight version on my Camaro and am happy with the results.

ryeguy2006a
05-23-2012, 11:56 AM
I would like to know too, I have one from a 98, that has the steep pitch as well. Also, what MC are you running? Do they use the same GM MC mount as the 70-81 style MC's?

sgernon
05-23-2012, 01:05 PM
I'm not sure of what the mc is off of but I can say it's a little too touchy so I need to change they bore size. I have the factory astro mc and will most likely try it with my C5/LS1 brakes. I modified the mounting bracket slightly by trimming some excess and flipping the booster over. I also had to adjust the length of the rod to the pedal.

59751

59752

59753

ryeguy2006a
05-31-2012, 07:50 AM
Was it determined that they were different?

Takid455
05-31-2012, 09:36 AM
I dont recall the exact reason, but I recall that 94-96 units were best suited for 2nd gens. I used a 95 unit. w/ 1.125" bore it is touchy at low speeds. Just something to get accustomed to with the feel. haven't done a panic stop but its a huge difference w/ C5/6 brakes over the stock 2nd setup. More importantly is the pump flow.

astroracer
05-31-2012, 03:52 PM
I decided to go with the '95 unit as well. Reason being I have the inside brake bracket from the same vehicle so there will be no issue with fitment or function. The straight unit keeps the M/C up out of the radiator area also. I degreased the '95 the other day with some spray degreaser and simple green. Plugged all of the open ports and hit it with the pressure washer after a few minutes of scrubbing with a small wire brush. Cleaned up nicely and I know it was working fine before the trans went out on the donor van.