I need to convert manual steering to power. What is the easiest way to accomplish this?

 

The answer "depends"

You likely? need a front end rebuild, or have you done so? This would be a great time to think about what you really want, IE better / stiffer T bars, front end condition and rebuild, and realignment for radial tires, or maybe even a "big bucks" Alter K or Hemi Denny or other replacement front end

At the very least you will need a power steering shaft for the column, or replace the column with a "power" column. OR you'll have to cut the shaft and have some custom work done to adapt an aftermarket steering coupler. This is because the shaft for power is SHORTER than manual

You'll need a different steering coupler........the spline on the power box is smaller

Start by reading this:

http://www.bigblockdart.com/techpages/techindex.shtml

Go here:

http://www.forabodiesonly.com/mopar/...p?p=1970088617

and download a free factory service manual

More manuals and other info here:

http://www.mymopar.com/index.php?pid=31

Depending on "how original" your car is you may need more / different steering parts

There is what is known as "large" and "small" sector boxes which is the pitman shaft. So far as I know, there is no "large" spline pitman that fits the early linkage.

Here's the deal. "Early" linkage like yours had the studs for the idler and pitman pointing UP, like this:



Later (73?) changed the design, and the pitman / idler pointed DOWN, like this:



What does this mean?

This means you have to be able to "get" a pitman to fix your box

AND it means that the box, the center link, the idler, and the pitman arm all must be compatible.

The "entire setup" listed above can be used between any A body from 68 and later BUT NOT 67. This is because your ORIGINAL K member had a "one year only" idler arm. It mounts with just "one ear." HOWEVER with a little fab and welding, you can CONVERT your K member to the more desirable 68 / later style

(Your original idler mount has a stud in the idler, not a through bolt as shown in these photos)

 

There is also a modification (shim) that can be done to the pressure regulator of the steering box.. Reduces pressure to increase feel YOU need to find a power steering steering column OR an aftermarket Hot Rod column. OR cut and weld the shaft

 

Thanks for the help I will get started on acquiring the necessary parts for the "entire Package".

 

Good point. "There was an article"

Mopar Action, "Pumping it down"

Download it here

http://www.moparaction.com/tech/beep...WN-re-v1.4.pdf

 

Get a steering box from auto zone $100 + 50 core. Any used box is going to be worn out needing a rebuild same with the pump- You need the motor specific brackets and pulleys