I'm getting really sick of the 80's GM steering boxes in my junk. I want a rack and pinion!
my '97 K1500 has a box. '07-'13 trucks have a rack and i'm wondering about a retrofit. Anyone know of any resources for dimensions of said rack? My google-fu is failing me
Can't help with that specific rack. Can tell you that nearly every stock style aftermarket "performance" rack is just a dressed up mustang 2 through s197. Then there is the circle track style racks which I went with on my G body. Its some work and you need to be aware of the geometry when placing it so that you get it right.
In case you haven't thought of it. Is that new rack electric assist? That could be a factor.
Otherwise the easiest way to get the geometry right is get a rack that has the tie rod pivots the same distance apart as the lower control arm bolts and mount it at the same height. If the lowers are angled inward like most GM cars then the distance between pivots will depend on where the rack ends up front to rear. If you can measure someone else's truck or better yet, find a cheap one (even if bad) just for mockup. What you don't want to do is just mount it somewhere and cause yourself bump steer. I've experienced that once when someone obviously just welded it in where it fit. It was scary to drive.
Speaking from experience it is a bunch of work but very much worth it.
In reply to Asphalt_Gundam :
I appreciate the feedback. Would you say it was worth it for a street-only car? My main gripe is the vaugeness on-center and the play that seemingly inevitably develops.
Check with Borgeson and see if they have a retrofit. You may be able to copy it.
In reply to vwcorvette (Forum Supporter) :
Unfortunately they don't but I appreciate the suggestion! Maybe i'll see if i can measure some racks at the Pick-n-pull
In reply to budget_bandit :
I did mine for the performance gains but yes, it made street driving better too.
In the name of simple: if your box can be adjusted you could try taking up some lash. And switching the rag joint to a u-joint is very much worthwhile: if that applies
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