Power Steering Mk3.2

[nautoncall]

I have searched and not seen any updates in a couple years. I have a 3.2 (or 3.1), built in 2009 so not sure which model exactly. Wildwood pedal box. I want to add power steering. What are my options and what would you all recommend.

Also, I read this is easier than power brakes. What suggestions for brakes? Thanks.

[edwardb]

No such thing as a 3.2 Roadster. There was the original 3.0 and then a 3.1 release with a list of upgrades. If you post your chassis number, probably can determine which it is. But whether 3.0 or 3.1 probably doesn't affect the power steering or power brakes discussion. What does matter though is more details about your build. What engine? What pedal box? Details about the brakes themselves. Then can maybe provide some responses and options.

[nautoncall]

Its a 3.1 then for sure. Its the second version of the MK3. Wilwood pedal box. 445 engine (351 windsor) (http://bennettracingengines.com/445p/). I have the standard wilwood brake system supplied by FFR. Thanks. I want to do steering for sure.

[edwardb]

Hopefully some forum members who have done power steering on a 351 block will chime in. I personally haven't, but recall there are issues with mounting an engine driven pump on the DS due to clearance issue with the steering column and the higher 351 deck. This system is an alternative to an engine driven pump. I installed it on a build along with hydroboost power brakes and was very happy with it. http://www.fastfreddiesfabrications.com/shop/product.php?id_product=4. Would require changing your manual steering rack to a powered version. There are also options for directly assisting the steering column with an electric assist unit. Some using a Saturn unit. Unisteer makes one. There are others. I personally have no experience. Maybe others will describe. Also you can search the forums and find more info.

For the power brakes, would be challenging to add to a completed build. Especially with the Wilwood pedal box where you'd have to move the hydraulics and brake lines from inside the pedal box to outside. You could experiment with different brake pads.

[Jeff Kleiner]

Hopefully some forum members who have done power steering on a 351 block will chime in. I personally haven't, but recall there are issues with mounting an engine driven pump on the DS due to clearance issue with the steering column and the higher 351 deck...

Actually no, the head does not come into play. Aftermarket brackets for using an OEM ford pump are the same for 302 or 351, place the pump in the same location relative to the crankshaft and mount to the front cover/water pump.

Jeff

[alv69]

I went with the electric power steering. works great.

[edwardb]

Actually no, the head does not come into play. Aftermarket brackets for using an OEM ford pump are the same for 302 or 351, place the pump in the same location relative to the crankshaft and mount to the front cover/water pump.

Jeff

Thanks Jeff. Could have sworn I saw some posts about that, but obviously I was wrong. Thanks for clarifying. That leaves all options on the table for the OP.

[DavidW]

Electric here, works great.....have the ability to turn it up or down depending on driving preference, road condition, speed, etc.

[CraigS]

Go here for the good PS stuff.
http://www.breezeautomotive.com/home.php?cat_id=12

[mike223]

Here is a thread detailing how the Saturn electric power steering can be done for less than $300 in parts.

This was done with a SN95 pedal box - I don't know if your Wilwood pedal box would be in the way or not.

There are other places it could be mounted besides what I did.

Mk-4-Pull-A-Part-EPAS (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?28241-Mk-4-Pull-A-Part-EPAS)

[Avalanche325]

I am a fan of good old hydraulic P/S, for now.

I did an AGR rack and pump. Did the spring mod on the pump. CFR Performance makes nice, but inexpensive bracket / pulley kits.

If you want pretty and don't mind spending a little extra, look at KRC pumps.

[nautoncall]

Thanks guys. I actually called FF and they said get a power steering pump from a 302 Foxbody and they sell a power rack for it. Not sure which way I will go. Also, I read some old posts and have talked to the member who sells an electronic kit but having to cut the shaft and weld u joints worries me.

[JimN]

Does this electric steering have to be done before the build is complete? Can do with body on?

[mburger]

While electric works, and there are complete kits available, I too like good ol’ hydraulic. Pumps for a Fox body will tend to whine. (My experience) I would strongly recommend the Breeze setup. https://www.breezeautomotive.com/shop/power-steering-pump-assembly-w-fabricated-reservoir/
Also, Mark Reynolds (The owner) has brackets, hoses and fittings AND if you tell him what you have, he can package up a complete system minus the rack. I’m running his setup with a 3 TLTL rack and love it. Aside from ease of parking at the car show, the car will drive SO much better on the highway with the added caster that can’t be run with standard steering.