'59 Ford power steering.....

[Ford Freak]

Hey guys! Is it very difficult to install power steering (factory type) on a non-power steering '59 Galaxie? What's involved here? Thanks in advance!

[miker98038]

I went looking for that topic, not knowing what Ford was using by 59. I’m somewhat surprised, but I found this. Larry is a pretty good source got early bird stuff, and has broadened their offerings lately. So if this is correct, here it is.

Please sit down, take your meds, turn up the oxygen, and pour an adult beverage before opening this link. At least that’s what I’d do.

https://www.larrystbird.com/product/...-specify-year/

[Gene F]

Mike...it's got that assist sleeve, which I hate. Sooner or later they always leak.

Who sells that rack-n-pinion setup for 55 -57 T-Birds?

[Abe Lugo]

I believe the R& P setups were Wurthit designs, I dont think its in business anymore, also I dont think they really got a good wrap.

Currently everyone seems to be using the Bergeson 605 style power box. With a canned ham pump.

Other late 50's owners have been using the 64-65 Fullsize for setup still a powered ram. with good results.

for the OEM style
All Matter of collecting the whole setup from the wrecking yard you need whole tierods, to the bracket the idler arm bolts to and the pitman part.

Get the pump if its there and the backet.

I found and pass one a few, there here in Los Angeles, thee were a few in the junk years lately.
If you still have a Y-Block or 390 there is specific bracket to use the proper pump.

[miker98038]

Gene,

Here’s a couple to pick from. I’ve never done anything with unisteer, flaming river has a pretty good name. Mine is a cavalier rack, custom done, several modifications to get it all to work. If you want to start another thread, I’ll provide the details. Short story, I’d put a piece of cardboard under the car if needed (mine didn’t drip) before I’d do it again.

https://www.unisteer.com/products/19...kit-302-motors

https://www.flamingriver.com/fr314kt...ed-tilt-column

[evintho]

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Wow....those prices are nuts! It takes a little bit of fabrication but, as far as I'm concerned, electric power steering is the way to go! I integrated a junkyard EPS unit into my '54 and I absolutely love it! I love making a U-turn with one finger. No pump, belts, hoses, resevoir, leaks or hydraulic fluid. Just a small electric motor tucked up underneath the dash. Less than $200 all in!

https://www.hotrodders.com/threads/e.../#post-4739217

[Abe Lugo]

I know, people rave about the electric steering. One thing to note is that you should still rebuild and redo alll the rest of the steering below that. Otherwise it will just be sloppy electric steering.
Also there are tons of built and driven cars in LA. I yet to meet anyone with this system on their car. But the install write up posted is awesome looking.

[KULTULZ]

Originally Posted by Ford Freak

Is it very difficult to install power steering (factory type) on a non-power steering '59 Galaxie? What's involved here? Thanks in advance!

The most sensible and economical way would be to find a donor.

You then simply rebuild/re-seal/replace any component that leaks or is worn.

The nicest feature of the BW SYSTEM is if there is an assist failure, you still have fully operational manual steering.

A power rack or EPAS INSTALL will not allow easy steering if a failure occurs. Also if going to EPAS, make sure you know the AMP needed to operate it. A GEN ain't going to make it.

[Gene F]

Originally Posted by evintho

Wow....those prices are nuts! It takes a little bit of fabrication but, as far as I'm concerned, electric power steering is the way to go! I integrated a junkyard EPS unit into my '54 and I absolutely love it! I love making a U-turn with one finger. No pump, belts, hoses, resevoir, leaks or hydraulic fluid. Just a small electric motor tucked up underneath the dash. Less than $200 all in!

https://www.hotrodders.com/threads/e.../#post-4739217

What was your donor car? I have heard of people doing this. If I ever go that route I'd like to change from generator to alternator too.

[Ford Freak]

Thanks to all that replied! - F F

[evintho]

Originally Posted by Gene F

What was your donor car? I have heard of people doing this. If I ever go that route I'd like to change from generator to alternator too.

All info is in the post. It was a 2005 Saturn Vue. It's a joy to drive that car with EPS!