Anyone ever use this kit from ABS Power Brake to convert you early Ford, 49 to 59, to power steering? ABS web site says it's a bolt on deal. Kit number 587 includes everything to convert the system (gear box, adapter, hoses, pump + adapter etal) Kit number 588 is the gear box and adapter plate only I am going to conveet my 1959 ranchero and this kit seems, depending on price, to be the easiest way forward. I will be checking on price today, but just wondering if any of you have used this kit before and what luck you had. Thanks in advance
I talked to the manufacturer (abs) today. They ***ure me that it would be a "bolt on" deal except for the steering column, which will have to be shortened. I already knew that part. He also told me that the 71 Ford pump I have will work fine and he can make the hose ends match my pump to his gear box. He just needs sto know the length and a picture/drawing of how they need to look (bends etc). Costs: Gear box (bolt on deal) = $500.00 Hoses = $60.00 for both Rag joint = $40.00 Total = $600.00 and this includes modifying my pitman arm to fit his gear box. He will need to slightly rheem and re-spline the arm to fit. What do you guys think? If it is really a bolt on deal, ssems like an ok price.
Wouldn't it be easier and probably cheaper to find a used 59 Ford power steering linkage and pump? I typically sell the linkage alone for around 300, the pump and pulley if you have an FE can be found almost anywhere. Just a thought.
I didn't know ABS was into steering boxes, price doesn't seem bad..Look up Borgenson and see what they have, might be better as I believe the box comes re-splined to match pitman and flanged to match frame.....
PTO: I have a complete 1959 PS linkage set up. It alone costs $250.00. However it all needs rebuilt, incuding the control valve and it needs a new cylinder. I was quoted $350.00 for this a while back. Also, I have been told by many that even once rebuilt, they are not very reliable and don't work all that well. They are 1959 technology. Seb Fontana: I have looked at Borgenson. Their gear box is welded to an adapter plate and, as far as I can tell, they use their own pitman arm. Their boc alone is $600 + the pitman + the rag joint + the lines etc The abs box is identical to a bergenson box I think. A knock off I am sure.. Anyone else have an thoughts??????????????
If you are in a dry area, and the linkage hasn't been left outside and rained on for the last 50 years, then chances are it will work as is. Just replace all the bushings. I have used them as is, just clean them up and get new lines. If it doesn't look too bad, then it's worth a shot. Not a guarantee, but if you are handy and willing to try, it may save you some money. Why do you think it needs a new cylinder? Never heard of any problems with them. The only issue I have heard is when they were taken apart and not put together correctly, so the control valve was not in the correct position and it would always pull on one way or the other at random times. Either way, good luck with your build. Do you have an FE or a Yblock?
I have used stuff from ABS in the past quite a few times. Although not always perfect they ALWAYS make it right. Good folks
PTO: I am putting in a 1971 351W w c-6. The pump is a new Ford pump for a 71 model. Think it would work?
PTO, see the below link. I went with ABS and so far it is perfect. http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=792859
The Jalopy Journal
