The CzAR

iTrader: (16)

Hey everyone,
So I'm debating removing the power steering from my car for aesthetic reasons mostly, just trying to free up some space in the engine bay.
Sounds like it's pretty straightforward, remove the pump/bracket and lines (ac's already been removed) then replace the steering rack with a manual steering rack.
My question to whoever has already done this is- hows the steering with the manual steering rack? I've owned a couple of cars without power steering and some were more manageable than others. Obviously at lower speeds it's worse, but other than that how is it?
The car is a project/weekend sort of car so I won't be doing any daily driving in it so I'm not worried about that.

clokker

iTrader: (2)

I converted my daily driver to manual and think it's one of the better moves I've made.
Even with larger/wider wheels and tires steering is easy, even at walking speeds.

The CzAR

iTrader: (16)

Awesome, that's exactly what I wanted to hear! thanks

jjcobm

iTrader: (18)

You also have the option of converting your power rack to manual by removing all the seals and welding up the holes for the lines:

http://forum.teamfc3s.org/showthread.php?t=54847

The upside to this is some "super steering angle kits" will not work with a factory manual rack, but do with a powered rack, so you get the best of both worlds.... I de-powered mine and I love the feel. Alot of people just disconnect lines and leave fluid and seals in the rack, giving you more resistance in the rack itself which makes steering heavy...

If you go the de-powering method, don't forget to weld the gear coming off the steering shaft, at the joint where the old seals and bearing sits. It gives a few degrees of play if you don't weld it up...