power steering question for a thunderbird

I just recently acquired a 1963 thunderbird project with power steering. The problem is that I don't have a power steering pump. Everytime I look for one, I am given two choices between the eaton and another kind. I am a little confused as to which one will fit my car. It would be nice if somebody could please enlighten me as to which one I would need. Because in all reality, it is a difference of better than $100 between the two. I don't want to sink the extra money in one if I don't have to. Thanks in advance.

 

pictures here (click on "more info")

http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/x,carcode,1335080,parttype,7380

Maybe you could take a few good pictures of the engine where the steering pump goes, so we could help you figure it out?

The Eaton pump has a separate reservoir that sits on top of the pump. If you need that pump, then you'll have to find the reservoir too. Are there any brackets for it on the engine? and you'll need a pulley. I'd probably try to find a used one that's complete, and overhaul it.

pics...

 

bad thing is that the motor was taken out and rebuilt by the previous owner. I also don't think it is the correct year motor. I'll have to run the numbers on the block when i get a chance.

 

There is also variation in pumps being either a front mount or rear mount. Likely a rear mount is needed. I ordered mine from rockauto. Very happy. Hope this helps

 

eaton or thompson? what is the difference?

 

Kind of like the difference between any other two parts that were designed and built by different companies. They are different pumps.

 

I guess what I'm getting at is do I have to run the eaton or can I run the thompson?

 

As long as the pulleys line up and the fittings/hoses don't leak you can run any pump you want. Buy or fab the appropriate brackets and you're good to go.

 

thanks

 

There may be a difference if your car has air conditioning or not. My 1962 thunderbird has air conditioning and has a remote reservoir. Thunderbirds without ac have the reservoir mounted to the pump.

 

Yeah, I talked to a buddy of mine who cut hit teeth on thunderbirds and we came to the conclusion of the eaton being the one used on A/C cars and the thompson on all others. Now I just have to find a bracket. I might be picking up a parts car though. Maybe I can rob one from it.