Steering box - 68 "quick" ratio vs. IROC box
 

Hey all,

was just curious if maybe one of you wizards could shed some light on this for me. I am trying to upgrade the steering box in my 68 Camaro for one that has a quicker ratio and better feel.

Just shopping around a little, I found that Advance Auto offers a Cardone reman. steering box for 67-9 camaro, that claims a 2 1/2 to 3 turns L-L. I think the same box is listed for CHevelle, too, which I was told would have different "stops".

But I know that many guys that take the more budget approach search out the Z/28 / IROC/ TA steering box, which is supposed to be 12.7:1, and I think it ends up being about 2 1/2 turns L-L also right?

So the question is: what is it about the IROC box that is more desireable? Is it improved valving that gives better feel?

Is it worth messing with different rag joints / line adapters to make the IROC box fit?

Thanks for any info you might have!

Jer.

For anyone curious, I went with the IROC box rebuilt by Cardone, and got a hold of a late model PS pump with the O-ring fittings so I don't have to fool with the conversion between the two with early lines.

I am also adding hydroboost at the same time, so the lines will be OEM lines if I can find an application that fits without looking too goofy.

Glad to see that you did (or are going to do?) the swap...In my opinion, the 3rd gen box swap is a great low buck upgrade to a first-gen. It has to be one of the top five "best bang-for-the-buck" mods for these cars.

The ratio is quicker, and the steering feel is much more "heavy" (ie like a modern car). ie no more feeling like you can steer the car with one pinky, like back in 69....

If you would like more info, Do a search on www.pro-touring.com and/or www.camaros.net and you will find a TON of information on this exact swap, part numbers, etc.

I would not hesitate to use the Lee adapter inserts, unless you really have your heart set on doing a power steering pump swap too...

Lee Manufacturing can set you up with the adapter inserts and coupler that you need with a quick phone call and about $60. (818) 768-0371.

Additionally, David Pozzi has a great page with tons of info on first gen steering upgrades here:

http://www.pozziracing.com/camaro_steering.htm

Good Luck!
-Rob

Cool, thanks for the reply.

I have been doing research on all the sites you recommended which is where I did find part numbers etc.. Pozzis site is pretty sweet, lots of great "grassroots" type info for a guy like me that doesn't have the $ to buy a high dollar subframe, etc, etc.

I am trying to stay away from the adapters based on price alone. My OEM lines cost $40 for BOTH and no adapters needed. Trying to keep it simple. Car didn't have any power steering before, so I needed a pump anyway, just so happens my freebie pump is the late style with the O-ring fitting, and will probably be better suited to the pressure / flow of the newer steering box anyway. Goods for me. . . .

I gotta fab up a bracket for the pump now. The vortech won't allow most mounts to work.

I just bought a 12.7:1 670 ATS/Lee quick ratio box and was looking for the "steer the car with one pinky" feel... I currently fight the steering wheel when trying to turn at no or very very slow speeds...or trying to back into the garage...

I really hope what I planned on happens...other wise there goes a few hundred bucks...

Wait a second-

You wanted an over-assisted steering box feel? Our 670 will not give you that at all.

Tyler

I should trade you my steering box which is aparently an IROC box. It has the "steer the car with one pinky" feel and I don't like it. I wish it was heavier like a modern car.

my steering box which is aparently an IROC box. It has the "steer the car with one pinky" feel

If you can do that with your pinky, I seriously doubt it's an IROC box. Either that, or you've got one heck of a strong pinky...:)

John

Yes. The car is driven by my pops (67 yrs old)...and he hates fighting the steering...When I called and talked with you I asked you if this would make driving the car simple...and you responded yes...that's why I ordered it...

Can you tell me what I can expect to get with this box, steering wise then?

I currently have a brand new 605 box (non power) in it and wanted effort less driving...

Let me know ASAP. I was going to be installing it this weekend...

My sales order # with you was 1167. Invoice # 1175

if you have NON power steering now... thats why it hard to turn the wheel...