just wondering, do i have to replace column for power steering cant i just replace power steering box and add a pump and keep original column

also i am looking for an axle flip kit but cant find one
any help would be great

last but not least i have the original 16" split rims on it it is 8 lug
what wheels and off of what will fit on it
thanks

 

If you use the recommended Ford Saginaw power gear you have to swap the column. The connect point is 2 1/3" towards the firewall from the other.

Split rims were still used in 68, did not know that. Any of the Ford 8 lugs should work, but test fit first before purchasing.

No help on the kit.



John

 

i really know nothing about power steering i thought you could just replace old box with a power steering box and add a pump and keep column

and im not 100%sure if they are original but i know they are on there
also is there any aftermarket wheels that will fit none of the newer ford wheels look all that good

 

If you use the not recommended pos Bendix power steering you can use the existing column.




John

 

So I can just use a power steering box from a newer ford and just link it up
Is that what your saying

 

Newer is the preferred Saginaw & column swap. You can also use one from a F100. The Saginaw is a much better setup.




John

 

I installed PS in my 1970 F250 4x4, I'm assuming yours is 4x4, and I used the box out of a 1979 F250 4x4. I kept my original steering column, but the shaft from the column to the box had to be shortened.

I would recommend that if you go this route you use a Borgeson steering shaft (you will still have to cut and shorten it) and get a redhead steering gear (reman units are all junk IMHO). But this will cost big $$

The original drag link also will need to be changed or adapted, I headed the center of mine to red hot and twisted it 90 degrees to line up...but you do this at your own risk. Mine is still too long so when I get a chance I will probably get a new one, cut it in the center, twist it, and weld a new sleeve over it (I'm a good welder).

 

Also, the 1979 box is not a bolt in, you will need to drill new holes and weld a plate on the inside of the frame for strength...

my truck also came with split rims, replace them asap. Any ford 8 lug will fit up until the changeover to metric with the 99 model year.

Use the search function on this forum, you'll find lots of info.

 

what does the pos saginaw come off of? I too have split rims on my 68

 

Hmmm, I didn't read 4X4. 4wd does not swap same as 2wd.



John

 

for 2x4 lol ?

 

No my truck is a 2 wheel driveI'm the 3rd owner of the truck it has 94000 original miles
Its not pretty but I'm proud of it
I think I'm going with the saginaw box and cut the column
Not sure which year box to go with though.

 

The steering shaft, shift tube (if so equipped) are different lengths with/without P/S.

There are two different types of P/S, the parts do not interchange. You need the column that matches the type of P/S and the year it comes from.

1966/68 F100/250 2WD, 1969 F100/250 2WD before serial number D96,001 used awful Bendix P/S.

Parts for the Bendix P/S gearbox including the seal kit are almost non existant.

1969 F100/250 2WD & F350's from serial number D96,001 used Ford (Saginaw) P/S as did 1970 and later.

This is the type of P/S you want, because it's a better unit and parts are readily available. The seal kits are the same thru 2002.

 

So if I understand correctly if I use a 69 or newer
Pump and column it would work
Do I still have to cut column

 

For power steering upgrade only, any 73-79 F series 2wd will work. Find a donor truck with an engine & transmission like you have. Harvest the column, gear, pump, bracketry, hoses/lines for a swap to your truck. There may be a few more donor options but that is enough to get you started. I run a 76 column in my 66.

Many of us upgrade to power disc brakes at the same time. Get it all from the same donor, save headaches.



John