steering gear question

[creamgorilla]

I'm attempting to change my steering gear box for the first time. I have the option of one with a description of 2.5 turn from lock to lock and the other is 3.5 turns from lock to lock. I imagine this is simply an easy way to to describe the gear ratios are different. However, will one of these give me a smaller turning radius? Or is the ratio difference simply something I will feel in response to turning the steering wheel?

[astroracer]

The quicker box "should" do nothing to change your turning radius. You will definetly feel a difference when turning. Especially when parking.

[creamgorilla]

OK that's what I was thinking but just checking to see if I was missing something. Thanks

[SRD art]

When I went from the factory unit to the 12:1 ratio (2.5 turns) in the wagon it made an incredible difference in turning speed. It did make a difference cruising on the freeway too, the more responsive box took some getting used to it's "twitchy-ness" compared to the sloppy and loose feel of the factory box. Overall I love the better feel and control of the car. I'd bet you'll feel the same.

As has been said it won't affect the turning radius, that's related to your suspension components.

[SRD art]

Oh yeah, details details! What kind of ride is it?

[creamgorilla]

Monte Carlo ss 88

[gammapunk]

I am looking at doing a similar upgrade on my 84 Monte Carlo SS. What ratio did you up going with? I noticed there are 16:1, 14:1 or 12.7:1 options from different websites.

[rchaskin]

For a high performance car......12.7:1.

[Bryce]

I run an 8:1 and love it.