Rack and Pinion and other suspension questions...

[Dantigan]

I have been mulling over a subframe rebuild or aftermarket swap out on a first gen firebird. After crunching numbers the rebuild should save me about 1500 to 2000. Which would be nice to save for other parts. My undecided factor seems to be the steering. Most aftermarket subframes come with rack, and I know ridetech makes the tru-turn system. When looking at upgrading the stock frame to rack I see that speedtech sells the unisteer system that bolts to the back of the LCA. The speedtech subframe has their rack in the same location. I have seen many people say that installing rack on the stock subframe does not work well as the stock frame was not intended for it and the geometry never lines up. Aren't the speedtech control arms interchangable between their subframe and the stock one? If the arms are interchangable and the rack and pinion mounts in the same location wouldn't that make the geometry on the stock and aftermarket subframes the same? My thoughts are if A=B and B=C then A=C... Can anyone that has the unisteer on their first gen f-body chime in on the performance of the system. Would I just be better off sticking to the stock steering with an upgraded box? I am planning to go with a chicane kit, ridetech coilovers and AFX tall spindles. With these components in mind should I stick with the speedtech control arms as they are potentially designed to work with the unisteer system? I like the idea of using the ridetech strongarms to get a little more shock travel. Any input is greatly appreciated, thanks.

[Dantigan]

I forgot to mention I am going with an LS2 motor. The unisteer site says their system is for SBC and BBC. Has anyone used it with an LS?

[killer69]

First off the unisteer rack does not fit the stock subframe WITH an LS motor UNLESS you want to build custom engine frame stands. the pan rail is wider and contacts the pinion housing and fittings.
Second the Rack works well, Have you seen my Nova?
Yes all the control arms are interchangable, except the Speedtech subfram lower control arms.
I wouldn't get hung up on an extra 1/2 of travel ,,, unless your going 4x4ing lol
with the LS i suggest the Lees Steering box, AFX tall spindles, High clearance upper control arms, and lowers.

[Dantigan]

Blake thanks for the quick response. I happened to notice your occupation so I am sure you are pretty familiar with the systems. I merely turn some wrenches here and there in my spare time so once it gets down to the technical information its good to have more enlightened people to share some wisdom and save me some headache. The LS is much more important than the rack and I dont want to mess with the motor mount placement. I will just make due with a box upgrade as this seems to be a substantial change on its own (plus saves cash). Interestingly enough I just got back from a weekend of 4x4ing....although it was in the jeep as the bird is stuck in body shop jail. Speedtech will probably see a few of my dollars if I ever get to post bail.

[rchaskin]

LEE box. Unreal steering feel & performance!!