hay fellas any one install one of those 53-56 F100 Rack & Pinion Straight Axle steering kits they have now. So far all Ive herd was bad stuff about them. My understanding is that since they mount to the axle the steering shaft is very long and takes a lot of abuse because of the constant up and down movement of the axle the slip /collapseable steering shaft wears out very quickly. And may not be very safe? I really like the idea behind the whole thing lots of room for big blocks/ exhaust and all because I really don't want to do the IFS thing no cash and don't have the time right now. but must correct the butched power steering job that was done to the truck because its un safe. really like to hear some thoughts guys. THANKS

 

I think you already know the answer....

 

I have a drop straight axle I use the toyota steering box its great I've had it since 1994 it's simple and cheap you can even go with the manual box.

 

I have the straight axle kit - its very easy to install.
Can't comment on it in use yet though as I'm still finishing the truck so not on the road yet.

 

Rack and pinion steering unit mounted on a straight axle is a very BAD and unsafe idea.
1. Increases the unsprung weight thus worsening the ride.
2. Puts excessive stress on the steering links and U-joints resulting in early and potentially life-threatening failure.
3. Induces bump-steer into the system.

The most dangerous part is the stress put on the steering system U-joints. They are not designed to be used in a system where the dynamic stresses from the suspension motion are transmitted through the U-joints. The U-joints can fail while you are driving and you then lose the ability to steer your truck. Oops! Accident waiting to happen.

Don't install one of these systems in your truck. If one is installed, TAKE IT OUT as soon as possible, BEFORE the accident.

Did I make my point?

Phil

 

Absoluteley made your point. makes perfect sence how and why can these co. sell sutch an unsafe pile of garbage? It blows me away. I really would like to do a street rod / pro street type of truck and want the cleareance for a big block with a streight axle front end has any one mounted a steering box out side the frame rail ?

 

Unless you understand a LOT about steering geometry and are willing to do a lot of modifications try to stay as close to the original geometry as possible. Every time you move one component it affects just about every other part in the system. The Toyota box mod changes it the least possible and the best part is that it works like it was made to be there. A BB isn't really that significantly wider across the crankcase to cause major problems that can't be fixed by offsetting the engine an inch or two to the passenger side. Headers shouldn't be a problem either, there are header companies like Sanderson that make headers specifically for transplanting all major popular engines in our chassis without clearance problems. If they will clear the stock box they will clear the Toy box as well.

 

If I use the toyota power steering box can I use my power steering pump that came with my 390 merc. super maurader engine ? Probably have to re-plumb it of course. Sorry about piggy backing on this thread. Thanks

 

Yes, that would work just fine. Any PS pump that was originally used for a recirculating ball (non rack and pinion) steering box will work. Some of the pumps used on the land barges (Lincoln, Caddy etc) may be high pressure models and make the steering more sensitive than you'd like but they often can be modified with an internal pressure regulator or aftermarket inline regulator or have a lower pressure version that will interchange. Use whatever pump originally was used with your engine for the least amount of drive belt/mounting bracket issues. Most pumps use a standard 16mm inverted flare fitting for the hoses regardless of manufacturer.

 

never mind the piggy backing good info thats why im here.

Ok so who knows the best place for prices on toy steering? Any one do some price shoping lateley allways looking for new places for truck part shoping. I think mid fifty so far is my favorite.

 

I got my conversion parts from Mid Fifty including Ididit column. Got the box from Car-Part.com--Used Auto Parts Market for 75.00 incl shipping. If you get a used box like I did, be sure to get the box hose fittings.
I got my SS braid hoses from Gotta Show after I tried the hose set from MF and the return hose was IMHO too close to my headers. The GS hoses have their own custom made banjo style fittings that are very low profie and don't require any adapter fitting on the return hose.