Pinto Car Club of America

hello to everyone again, I have posted some pics and comments about  my "greek" 73 runabout.I would like to ask some information if anyone can help me.

1) steering rack interchangeability.My 1973 steering rack is in bad shape, i know that the 73 model has a different rack.I have 2 almost new steering racks from 71-72 pintos that don't seem to fit.Also i have a steering gear (lower part) from a 72 ( i have noticed that it is different from mine).Question is if there is an easy and safe way to fit a 71-72 rack in the 73 model.What about later years racks? I have found here in athens 2-3 part cars that are 75-76 (2)  and a 78 model.A good rack from them could fit in my car, or are there any mods needed?

2) same issue about the suspension...i have read that 74+ suspension is different and similar to mustang II.How different is it, what parts of the suspension of a 74 or 75 model do fit a 73 runabout?(coil springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings)

3) fuel tank.I have a small leak in my fuel tank...is a 75 or 76 fuel tank similar?

I am asking all these questions firstly because I have found some old pintos here in junkyards that are 1975 and 1976.I feel these models are quite different and i don't really know if I should make an offer to buy one of them as a parts car....
Secondly I see a lot of stuff in ebay, I buy things from time to time, but because of the very high shipping costs I need to be sure that what I buy will fit the "old man" :)

Thanks everyone in advance,

Mark

I have a 73 and I plan to go through the front suspension in the near future. I have talked to a couple of parts stores locally they say they can get some of the parts needed. Until I actually see the parts and try installing or comparing them to my original parts I won't know if they will work. I will be glad to pass on any information or even purchase the parts and ship them to you if I know for sure they wil fit. It may be a while as I have acouple of other projects going.

You could order a front end from a street rod such as Fat Man fabrications or Heidts but you are looking at some major dollars and a lot of custom work.

Tercin