yep I did search (when the server would let me) and I found a lot of tidbits but not a read answer so i will post my version of what I am sure is a wel worn question...
(good things bear repeating right?)

what newer year power steering setup would bolt right in and replace my manual steering in my 65 250 camper special? My cousin has several derilict fords and so does the local junk farm, so maybe I can get what I want cheapo.

what years PS setupwill bolt right in the manual steeerings place? (if thats even possible) I dont mind the drummbrakes all around, but I have a bad arm and PS would be great, if possible to swap out.
Thanks!

 

mouse 65-79 is bolt up exchange, no matter 100-350(non dually) There were only two ps units used on 2wd trucks, Bendix & Ford.

There are a few early 70s 3spd Ford ps trucks around. You'll just have to look until you find one in your area. There were 3 in a local yard in NC about 10 months ago.

hope you find one

John

 

2nd Mouse

John is right on the money again, and I'll add a few things to his reply that may be of help to ya' though.

1) 4X4 Power Steering Boxes don't fit 4X2 applications, and vice-a-versa. Try to get Saginaw System, often called, "Ford" type P/S.

2) When you get your power steering box make sure you get the correct pump for the box you have. I think if I recollect right you said your 65 has a 352FE in it, right? Also take the rag joint & flange for Strg Box with you, so you have both styles Original & a later, P/S type, also.

Based on Pump & Strg Box relationship & the potential at some point in the future you may upgrade FE ebgine to something else, I'd suggest looking for 73-79 "Ford" steering box, which is made by Saginaw & uses the saginaw "slipper" type pump.

3) I know for a fact there are FE brackets for Saginaw pumps but more importantly there are no brackets for Bendix or Early type pumps (used to drive older "slave ram" assist style P/S) which fit better, later, engines, as are for more common Saginaw pumps.

4) While I got your attention on pumps, get ALL PULLEYS off front of FE engine you take your P/S pump & brackets from. Pulleys on your 65 Manual Steer are most likely different than P/S are.

5) Hoses (Lines) are available several ways. Take the hoses off system w/ you as samples. Ready Made, New, Replacements are pricey. I usually get a Hydraulic Shop to make me a new pressure hose based on fitings used on old pressure hoses. I'd say this is roughly 1/2 price of ready made hoses, but check it in your area!

6) 73- 79's use a small, radiating, oil cooler, in P/S Sys return line. It's not large maybe 2"Wide x 1"Deep x 6" or 8"Long . It takes bite out of "HOT" P/S Fluid. That allows system Seals, O'Rings, Oil, Gaskets & Hoses, to last longer.

Last point, when your manual gear is off clean & check the frame section for spider cracking. It is not common or usual but it does exist in many brands of vehicles. It's worth checking out. If cracks are present let me know & I'll suggest a way to fix them right.

Getterdun!

FBp

 

you guys rock.

 

Welcome to FTE! One more thing; get the steering column from the PS truck, these are shorter than the manual steer column. The loop bracket that holds your column on now can be moved to the shorter column. Backup and neutral start switch will swap between the newer and the older columns. If you get lucky you may find a 79 tilt. These are rare but they are out there.