Hi guys:
I see Mustang II manual steering racks listed on EBAY for $79 - these are the 16" center to center bolt pattern setups. Are these the same as the Pinto manual steering racks? I have a '76 wagon with manual steering, thinking about replacing the unit (as everything else under the front end has been, and I'd like it to be a fresh steering unit).
Can anyone with experience here please help? Thanks much.
Chris
I have always thought they were the same. At least, from all the information I have gathered, they ARE the same. The only manual steering racks that won't interchange are the pre-74 model ones. The 73 steering rack won't interchange with ANYTHING though.
Every thing on E-bay is called " mustang II" but you need to check the overall length from tie rod end to tie rod end. There are many different lengths because of street rods.
Quote from: popbumper on March 08, 2010, 04:05:27 PM
thinking about replacing the unit (as everything else under the front end has been, and I'd like it to be a fresh steering unit).
The manual R&P units are not too hard to change out, so if I were you, I would leave it alone until it gave problems and a reason to replace.
I got mine at Oreillys about 7 years ago and was defective right out of the box (clunks over bumps). I returned it for another and it has been fine. It has a lifetime warranty, like most other replaced parts on that car... :cheesy_n:
Make sure the one you buy it from has some sort of decent return policy, just in case.
Rob, Rob, Rob, you are destroying my dreams of "shininess".
Seriously, I noticed clunking in my front end when I was turning, that was before the front end rebuild and I am not certain if the clunking was associated with the steering rack or not (and of course cannot prove otherwise with my engine and tranny out). Given the simplicity of the assembly, the current access, the desire to restore the steering column, and the fact it's the only assembly on the front end that is not new, I'd rather do it now while I can.
So there. :P
Chris
Okay, I forgot about that clunky steering noise, so maybe it is time for a new one. Maybe it can at least wait a while... :smile:
I just want you to get that thing on the road this summer or fall - I am out working on my car, so hope you are too. Spring has come!
I did not like your earlier idea of giving up on it - you have gone too far to bail. I felt the same but it was the weather. My car progress is actually lifting my spirits!
Well, right now TIME is my biggest enemy - though the weather is finally cooperating. I had every intention of visiting the car last night to get stuff done, only to leave work tired after 6 PM. I'll be here late tonite, too much going on right now.
What should have been done in a "standard" texas winter around December has now moved out to March; it's a bummer. Car definitely will NOT be on the road this year, I've yet to rebuild a motor and tranny, reinstall the dash, do the steering, and replace the rear end....let alone consider what I might do with the interior and bodywork.
IF indeed I ever get it to where I want it, it will literally be a new car.....
Chris
From what I understand the Mustang II rack is beefier inside than a Pinto rack. I have heard this from several street rod guys.
These are the interchangeable manual Racks
75-80 bobcat
74-78 mustang II
74-80 pinto
The power R/P interchange is the same
I have a manual on craigslist in the Everett WA area, if by chance your are in this area.
clunking.... check your rag tie, the steering column coupler to rack/pinion shaft assembly. the hard rubber piece can cause sounds.
Ordered a new rack and Pinion unit from Flaming River yesterday. Will also order a new rag joint and rack bushings.
This will be a NEW CAR when I get finished - EVERYTHING mechanical is being replaced or refurbished.
Chris