manual rack & pinion
 

i would like to put a manual rack & pinion on my straight axle[64 Econoline]- on my Ranchero--I DO NOT WANT POWER STEERING!!!--i want something strong because the little gasser will jump around some 8) :? :? :?

the total weight of the Ranchero will be less then 3000 pounds [ depends on what engine combo i use] and narrow front tires.

any suggestions[ please not $1200 rack conversions]

thanks LIVELY

Flaming River Pinto manuel rack and pinion. $236.00 plus shipping.

Zip.

http://www.flamingriver.com/index.cf...rod/prd238.htm

I second that on the flaming river rack, thats what I have in mine.

does that bolt to the axle or do you drill holes in axle to mount it?pics of yours? thanks LIVELY

It has to be bolted to the chassis, pic. below is mine but it's also a strut setup not a straight axle.

Zip.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v5...2/100_0794.jpg

Straight axles and rack and pinion steering don't get along very well, Dennis. If you bolt the R&P to the axel, You're gonna need some kind of monkey motion, in the steering shaft, to allow for the axel to move up and down. If you bolt the rack to the frame, bumpsteer will become your worst enemy. Speedway Motors, has a write-up in one of their catalogs, about why this isn't a good idea.(I think it's their hot rod catalog.)Not saying it can't be done.

I ran a Pinto rack&Pinion successfully on my 58 Corvette with a dropped straight axle for many years.
Like others have already mentioned, bump steer is important to keep at a minimum with any front suspension.
This was a drag race only car, best ET of 8.70's 145+.
Best of success with what ever you try.