I decided to use a modified power steering gear in manual mode. I have completed the teardown and analysis, and I'm in the early stages of re-assembly. See the attached "lab report".

 

dang, impressive report!

 

Wow! Nice job

 

Really nice write up for those of us that had know idea what was going on in there and were afraid of alternating recirculating ***** dropping out and rolling around the garage for the next millennia...

Planning to do any tests on static steering effort reduction after reinstallation? Also, what kind of fluid reservoir are you setting up? Thanks!

 

Steering effort reduction: The car currently has a manual steering (MS) gear in it, so I can compare the modified PS gear to that one (subjective). I think you're asking for a comparison between a "looped line" PS gear and my modified PS gear, which I don't have the time to do. If I could find another car with a "looped line" PS gear, with the same wheels and tires . . .

Fluid reservoir: I'm going to make a small aluminum box with a liquid level sight tube. It'll hold approx 2 cups of gear oil and plumb directly into the inlet and outlet ports on the gear. This is overkill, but I want some assurance that I always have a full fill of gear oil. I'll post pics when it's done.

 

I've just about decided to replace all my steering components. Here's a list of what I'm considering. Any past experience or recommendations?

 

I recall a thread here where a "compatible" Pitman arm wasn't quite right wrt the spline shape or taper for the center link. I apologise for not having more detail, but I believe it was hit or miss on the fit between various manufacturers.

OK, found it, see post 20, he might be able to help you, though it's been awhile https://www.rx7club.com/1st-gen-gene...ouble-1115359/

 

I think I bought his last one last year, but hit him up.

 

I did all this a few months ago, except I updated to t3 lower control arms and tension rods. Your list looks good.

I ended up having difficulty removing my pittman am, so left the stuck one in place. The ball joint and boot on it looked good, so I just lubed it. The steering definitely firmed up and feels good (except for the normal slop).

 

Thanks all for the intel on the pitman arms. I just contacted Rare Parts, and they confirmed that they get their forgings from Centric. So what we have (maybe) with regards to the pitman arm is:

Rare Parts = Centric = BeckArnley (spline doesn't install properly onto the steering gear)

Transteering = TBD (forging appears to be from Taiwan, no info on spline engagement)

Any additional experience / info would be greatly appreciated!