From Power Steering to Manual

[Jezza_hr]

When I did the engine conversion in my AE86, I was pretty much forced to remove the power steering pump temporarily while I worked out a way to get vacuum lines matched up and a shorter drive belt when eleiminating the a/c.

Now, I haven't managed to get around to this so I'm running a power steering rack and knuckles without a pump and I'm contemplating getting the pump back in or changing the knuckles to manual in order to eliminate the pump entirely. Which method would be the more painless and stress free and hold the better results?

Also, if I am to go to the manual side, would I only be required to change just the knuckles or both the knuckles and the rack?

[4000GT]

You need a new rack... get an AW11 one, usually much cheaper and identical. Keep the PS tie rods as that are longer. If you dont have the PS cross member, you will need some thicker rubber mounts to hold the rack on. You will also need the steering column or at least the rod to the u joint. Pretty easy...

[totta Crolla]

I have to say that power steering has transformed my rally '86 and I would never go back.
I'm using a shorter belt to just drive the p/s pump, no a/c fitted.
Fitting the pump back on is definately the easiest option for you.... I'm talking from experience

[4000GT]

I took my power steering off and converted to manual rack. A wee bit of unnecessary weight since im not in the supermarket with my track car And its weight off the front so even better.

[NoHachi]

totta Crolla Wrote:I have to say that power steering has transformed my rally '86 and I would never go back.

Counting down the minutes untill someone comes up with a manly man go to the gymn remark

[totta Crolla]

NoHachi Wrote:

totta Crolla Wrote:I have to say that power steering has transformed my rally '86 and I would never go back.

Counting down the minutes untill someone comes up with a manly man go to the gymn remark

Lol, I think if I have to wrestle with the steering it's too heavy, simple as. Smooth gentle steering inputs are so much easier with p/s

[4000GT]

Sounds like you have a heavy front end?

I am running 13" wheels and fibreglass panels, battery in cabin, PS removed, no window washer bottle or basically any extra wiring, so the front end is very light, hence no need for PS.

[NoHachi]

*I think* that front end weight has little to do with it. Extra effort could come from running extra caster and the added scrubradius that almost all ae86 rims introduce.

[MasCor]

if you wish a manual rack and manual steering knuckle i can send you a complete manual set.and i can get your power steering rack and knuckles.do you interested in this?

[Jezza_hr]

totta Crolla Wrote:I have to say that power steering has transformed my rally '86 and I would never go back.
I'm using a shorter belt to just drive the p/s pump, no a/c fitted.
Fitting the pump back on is definately the easiest option for you.... I'm talking from experience

Out of curiosity, what belt are you running? I've also removed the a/c and would need a shorter belt, but have no idea where to start.