Power Steering for 56 F100 I have power steering but was wanting to know if this style is ok.

 

I have that style on my 1956 F100. Installed it back in about 1982. That was all that was available. Back then only the pitman arm and a drag link adapter to install the control were available. You sourced your own hardware (control valve, pump, and cylinder) and made whatever brackets and hoses you needed. It works okay. It has a small amount of play in the steering which is normal for that type of control valve. But, you keep the original steering box and column which to me is more important. You shouldn't encounter any fitment issues to sort through with this type of system.

 

I have that system on my truck works well and fits my application with 427 with factory cast manifolds. I had thought of the toyoda box but it won`t fit with the large cast headers. You must make sure king pins are in good condition as well as the tire rods for the steering to feel right.

 

I don't feel so bad. I thought I might be the last person using that type of power steering. Plus you are the second person that has mentioned fitment issues with a Toyota power steering box.

 

I had that setup in my 56 with a 460 engine...worked well. Installed a C4 IFS so that's the only reason it's not still in use.

 

Easiest p/s to install and only applies pressure to the tie rods and center link. Allows retaining 3 on the tree and OE horn button without difficult mods. Not as direct as rack and pinion but not much difference compared to a recirculating ball type gear. Was used on tons of Fords, Corvettes, some Chryslers, etc. Nice thing is if something happens to the system you're no worse off than you started as the stock steering gear ratio remains. And it's the closest thing to 'period correct' if that means anything to you.

 

If you gave a boat yard nearby, look for Mercruser powered boats. They used the same system for powersteering. You can get the valves and adapt them to the draglink. Usually the motors and drives go to hell and they part out the rest of the hulls but don`t always take the steering.

 

hell it all sounds good I might buy it. I will look around at the nationals and see if anyone is using one .