Just got the car. It's got a 440 4bbl holly, drum brakes and manual steering. First, what oil? Second, should I get a new steering gear box. I've heard that the 16:1 boxes feel squirelly, and I don't really want to do the full power steering mod. Also, the brakes. I heard about a master cylinder that just bolts on and is a booster for manual drum brakes. I was leaning towards just disc brake conversion on the front, but quite a bit more expensive. Anyone have any thoughts or experience in these areas? thanx, DJ

 

20w50, I prefer Castrol in my cars.

I would just leave a manual box in it..

Disc is nice, but then you have to go BBP all the way around. I have drums on my car is it stops just fine.

 

Thanks. I was looking online and a lot of guys are using 10w30. I'm doing the first oil change since purchase. The car has after market oil press, temp, and tach. I know everyone has their opinions on oil, I'm just surprised at such a difference between weights that I'm hearing. I've been running Castrol in all my vehicles since 1980 with no problems, but those cars all had manufacturer's recommendations on oil weights. The oils today are much better than in 1968, so I should be ok. As for the steering, I think you are right, I'll just get a new box. The brakes seem to pull, and not consistantly to one or the other side. What is BBP? Can't I just buy a disc kit and plug and play? Thanx, dj

 

Big bolt pattern / large bolt pattern


I don't know if youre buying a small bolt pattern kit... Maybe the car has large bolt pattern already?

If you put a 73 and up K-member/ spindles / ect, then you get large bolt pattern

 

i also use castrol some people also like to use an additive that adds zddp its an anti wear additive i have never used it so i cant tell you anything about it just some info to pass to you on the brakes i have thought about a disc conversion but they are pretty pricey and my drum brakes stop me fine but hey your car your build do to it want you want that is the fun of building a car

 

i would keep the steering box
whatever oil you use, use one with zinc in it