Need to put PS on a 51 Ford Victoria

[LazarusLong]

Originally Posted by kirkf

Are you running radial tires?
Bias ply would be alot easier to steer.

Kirk

Yeah,but I hate bias ply tires and really hate paying more for crappier tires.

[40 Deluxe]

Originally Posted by LazarusLong

Yeah,but I hate bias ply tires and really hate paying more for crappier tires.

I agree, the OEM 6.70-15 bias plies have a smaller footprint and will steer easier at a standstill than radials but since you already have radials, that's a non-issue. Your car was designed, however, for any driver to be able to parallel park without undue effort. The big steering wheel and slow steering (many turns lock-to-lock) help.
Here's what helped my '40: First I jacked up the front axle and tried turning the wheels side to side. It turned easily while in the air, but not so much on the ground. I had no idea when the steering box was last lubed, so I filled it with CV joint lube (for front drive axles). This grease seems identical to the fabled "John Deere cornhead grease" but cheaper, and found at any parts store. What a difference! It takes a little futzing to get it in while getting the air out, but doable.
Also, whenever you can, avoid having to turn the steering wheel while sitting still. Even at a slow roll, steering is much easier.

[LazarusLong]

I adjusted the play in the steering box and filled it with new grease when I first got the car. It was a part of the process of checking over the front suspension for wear and replacement parts needed.



The problem is COPD,not a dry steering box. A couple of weeks ago I had no trouble with it at all.

[Ol' Ron]

I've converted several cars and trucks over the years to PS. Most of the time mounting the pump is the hardest part. Mu friend installed a Saturn Electric in his 38 PU for less than 100 bucks. Can't beat that with a stick.

[LazarusLong]

Originally Posted by Ol' Ron

I've converted several cars and trucks over the years to PS. Most of the time mounting the pump is the hardest part. Mu friend installed a Saturn Electric in his 38 PU for less than 100 bucks. Can't beat that with a stick.

No kidding. That's only two tanks of gas. Less for my diesel pu.


This whole electric power steering is something new to me,but I like it.