I've always owned vehicles with quick-ratio steering racks. The slow 16.6:1 ratio on the FD is the one thing I really dislike about the way the FD handles. I've had both power steering and a manual rack installed on my FDs. I know that there are manual rack options for 13:1 but I've never seen anyone with both quick ratio and power steering in an FD. Is there any feasible way to get both in an FD? I've thought about Evo IX or 2015+ STI racks since I'd prefer hydraulic, but it seems like electric racks would be easier. Has anyone researched this topic in depth and if so, what was your conclusion?

 

The only way I know to do a quick ratio with power steering is to go with a manual quick ratio conversion and add an electric assist unit that only operates from 0-15 mph. American Powertrain makes a good electric assist that weighs less than the stock hydraulic unit.

https://americanpowertrain.com/electric-power-steering/

 

^^ what is the weight addition for that setup?

 

I think it weighs 5-6 pounds. Way less than the hydraulic unit.

 

thank you, I’m not familiar enough the hydraulic pump to understand the reference.

 

Interesting, but $$$$$

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/a...10010#overview

 

ouch, there’s another kit from them on there that’s about $1,000 more, but I’m having trouble finding anything on their company website that details the difference or even lists the part numbers


edit: put the part numbers in their search; that one is for 1965-70 Ford/Cougar and the more expensive one is for a C1/C2 Corvette

https://americanpowertrain.com/produ...ower-steering/

 

The American Powertrain unit is expensive, but I changed to the Atomic Rex manual rack and its a lot quicker. So, with big Toyo R88's its a workout at very low speeds. It was all I could find that would work. You need to get the universal one and not one for a specific make and model, which they make a fair amount of. Maybe call them?

Also, anyone know how to convert turns lock to lock into the steering ratio? Mine is 2.4 turns versus stock at 2.9 and I can't find the original invoice from Atomic Rex, which has long since been out of business. I suspect its about 12.5:1?