Build thread 37 Dodge PU

[Mike P]

Well, 3 days after I started on the 20 minuet job of changing the rack out, the new rack is finally in.




It turns out the rack not coming with the correct fitting and having to source adapters was the least of the problems. Although this rack looks a lot like an original Ford rack, I now suspect it’s probably an overseas copy (big surprise). There were several subtle differences between this and a Ford rack that turned it into a real PIA to install. The pressure lines on the back of the rack were set farther out than the original (and couldn’t be interchanged because the Ford rack lines and fitting are SAE and the replacement uses metric. The Pinion shaft also was about ½” longer……. just enough to have to shorten one of the steering shaft and have the flats milled longer (thanks Dave). It also changed the angle of the joint causing it to bind and shaft to rub on the frame. By the time all was said and done I had to notch and box a place on the crossmember and one on the frame, plus realign the steering shafts.

If I had know all that I would have to go thru, I would have just sent the rack that was in it out to be rebuilt……but because of the unknowns with my hand and how long I’ll be laid up It was quicker to basically set the steering up all over again.

Oh well at least it’s done now.


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