Some questions about power steering details

[jwsnake56]

54926
I have the stock FFR supplied PS rack installed. Went in without any issues. I roughed in the adjustment of the UCA to where I thought the front alignment would be in the ballpark for a Mk4 with power steering. Next, I test fit the tie rod ends to confirm my hunch that the tie rods were a bit too long. Indeed, they bottomed out with what looks like about 1/2"-3/4" extra length. I saw edwardb's post in his thread about using Moog ends to avoid this issue. So I suppose it is common to have to cut down the tie rods for a power steering installation? Does taking off about an inch per side seem reasonable based on others experience?
The FFR supplied upgrade also came with hoses. I assume they fit a stock Mustang pump? Any recommendations on my best options for the pump side of the system. I want to add a Heidt Valve to be able to tune the boost level. The pump will be on the DS of the engine. Does the valve usually mount on that side of the engine compartment, or possibly on the X member? I guess that also means fabricating custom hoses too?
I will be at the London show on Friday and expect to look at lots of cars to see what others have done with their builds. But in the mean time I really want to get my tie rod ends in so I can feel like the front suspension is done and start with the DS footbox and steering linkage.
Thanks for any helpful info.
John S.

[edwardb]

Quite common to have to trim some off the ends of the inner tie rods with either manual or PS. Just be careful how much you trim (hard to put it back...) and be mindful of the minimum thread engagement. As I recall they recommend at least one inch, but don't quote me on that. I'd also be a little careful until you are able to get a more accurate front end alignment. All three factors (caster, camber, toe) plus having it at ride height can have some effect. The Moog ends you mentioned that I've used now a couple times eliminate the trimming, but there's nothing wrong with using the stock parts.

Hopefully you mean Saturday for the London show. That's the gathering in downtown London with lots of cars and owners. I'll be there. Friday plenty of people are around, but at the hotels or out cruising.

[CraigS]

I think that it is more common to cut about 1/2 inch from each end. You can also reduce the assist by cutting the pressure relief spring in the pump. Saves you the cost of the heidts and the extra hose ends. Search for a length spec. If you cut it too short you can easily shim it w/ hardware store washers.

[Jstanding]

Quite common to have to trim some off the ends of the inner tie rods with either manual or PS. Just be careful how much you trim (hard to put it back...) and be mindful of the minimum thread engagement. As I recall they recommend at least one inch, but don't quote me on that. I'd also be a little careful until you are able to get a more accurate front end alignment. All three factors (caster, camber, toe) plus having it at ride height can have some effect. The Moog ends you mentioned that I've used now a couple times eliminate the trimming, but there's nothing wrong with using the stock parts.

Hopefully you mean Saturday for the London show. That's the gathering in downtown London with lots of cars and owners. I'll be there. Friday plenty of people are around, but at the hotels or out cruising.

What is the Moog part number for those ends?

[Al_C]

jwsnake56,

In your original post, you wrote "I have the stock FFR supplied PS rack installed". My question is where you found this item! To my knowledge, the options for a PS rack are Autozone, Breeze and other third party providers. (I'm trying to get the whole PS thing done now, too...) First thing I did was look at the parts catalog on line, but I didn't find a PS rack on the FFR site. I'm hoping you'll tell me I missed it and there is actually one there! Got a link?

[edwardb]

What is the Moog part number for those ends?

Moog ES2150RL

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/edwardb123/Factory%20Five%2020th%20Anniversary%20Mark%204%20R oadster/Front%20Suspension/th_IMG_3307_zps8zatpfpe.jpg (http://s867.photobucket.com/user/edwardb123/media/Factory%20Five%2020th%20Anniversary%20Mark%204%20R oadster/Front%20Suspension/IMG_3307_zps8zatpfpe.jpg.html)



jwsnake56,

In your original post, you wrote "I have the stock FFR supplied PS rack installed". My question is where you found this item! To my knowledge, the options for a PS rack are Autozone, Breeze and other third party providers. (I'm trying to get the whole PS thing done now, too...) First thing I did was look at the parts catalog on line, but I didn't find a PS rack on the FFR site. I'm hoping you'll tell me I missed it and there is actually one there! Got a link?

Factory Five has recently begun offering power steering options with a kit order. You can see them on the order forms although the parts aren't listed in the on-line parts catalog. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AplPHykVx0Q

[Jazzman]

Factory Five has recently begun offering power steering options with a kit order. You can see them on the order forms although the parts aren't listed in the on-line parts catalog. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AplPHykVx0Q

This is good news. I am glad to hear that FFR is offering this option. I was surprised when I found it was not an option when I bought my car. Good on you, Factory Five!!

[jwsnake56]

jwsnake56,

In your original post, you wrote "I have the stock FFR supplied PS rack installed". My question is where you found this item! To my knowledge, the options for a PS rack are Autozone, Breeze and other third party providers. (I'm trying to get the whole PS thing done now, too...) First thing I did was look at the parts catalog on line, but I didn't find a PS rack on the FFR site. I'm hoping you'll tell me I missed it and there is actually one there! Got a link?

The power steering rack is an optional upgrade to the complete kit. If ordered with the kit I think it is like $150. Seems like a good unit - probably stock Mustang aftermarket part. Only complaint was a big blob of casting flash right next to where the DS front mounting bushing goes. Dremel too care of it.
John S.

[jwsnake56]

Forgot to mention that they supply no instructions, but they do give you hoses! That is why I started this thread, to fill in the blanks.
John S.