How does the power steering pump /rack work on a second gen car? The real question I have is why are there three lines going from the pump to the rack. I know the return line is an easy one but the other two are the ones in question? any takers on this one? I am asking only because I am performing the sacreligious V8 swap. Dont worry I love all things powered by dino juice and I saved this 88 se from the crusher. I was wondering how to mate the rx variable steer to the LS1 power steering pump without using the electronic assist. I am open to all suggestions even using the electronic assist. The only thing that I think would be difficult is mating the rotary pump to the LS1. ROTARY LOVERS PLEASE DO NOT TAKE OFFENSE I LiKE the 13 b and I like the rx7 plus the one I'm using is an 88 se with auto trans.

 

I think there are only 2 hoses going to the power steering rack but I very well be wrong, if I were you I would just swap the power rack in for a manual rack, that would be much easier. Sorry thats all I can help with.

 

the 86-88 ps system varies the assist level with a stepper motor. it uses an in an out an another out to the cooling loop.

mike

 

the 86-88 PS is rpm sensative. save the hassle and pull it out or is the V8 to heavy in the front to steer without out?

 

I weighed the car before the swap 2623 lbs and after 2672lbs Although I havent driven it yet the steering seems a little heavy. I thoughtn about converting to a manual rack but then I have to deal with the LS1 power steering pump which must be on there for the serpentine belt. I did a nissan truck 302 swap a couple of years ago and the truck had no power steering. It's kind of hard to control when you are going sideways at 5 mph or less. This swap is a six speed and I like the idea of the rx assist box, but I dont know how it works .

 

bump

 

I'd say just remove it.. I have the belt off of my 88 gxl (which is apparantly heavier than yours, even after the swap), with 225mm wide tires in the front, and it's really not that bad.. ZERO problem when moving more than 5 mph... The only real problem is when talking on the cell phone..heh

That, or swap in the manual steering rack.. It'll be lighter without that pump, and has 3.2 (i believe...anyone) turns lock to lock, instead of the 2.7 the PS ones have, so it should be even easier than your disabled p/s one..

-Tesla

 

Hey cdk 4219,

How about some more detail on your swap, I'm thinking about doing this. Donor engine and tranny, model rx-7, neccesary suspension mods, problems you encountered (like this one). Good luck.