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

[hotrodf1]

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.

[hotrodf1]

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.

[rwhite692]

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

[hotrodf1]

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.

[jy211]

Originally Posted by rwhite692

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....-Rob

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...

[Teetoe_Jones]

Wait a second-

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

Tyler

[Rybar]

Originally Posted by jy211

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...

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.

[79ZED]

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

[jy211]

Originally Posted by Teetoe_Jones

Wait a second-

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

Tyler

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

[skatinjay27]

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