Power Steering

[rychi1]

I have a Gen 1-33 with a manual rack and I want to upgrade to power steering. Do I have to get the kit from Factory five so the electrical connections are correct or can I order the parts from unisteer? As far as I can tell, I would need the universal kit below with 2-U-Joint 9/16 -30 x 3/4" DD.

Is that correct?

https://www.unisteer.com/collections/electric-power-steering/products/universal-electra-steer-360w-kit?variant=30004217413731

[rychi1]

Also followup question is that the 360w unit is what they show on the Unisteer site, but you can buy the 220w unit from Summit. Since our cars are so light, will the 220w unit work just fine?

[rychi1]

Can anyone help with this question?

[Davew70]

I have a gen 1 33 hot rod also that was delivered in September 2018. My power steering unit came with the kit from FFR. Mine is a Unisteer Electra-steer model number 8051500 which I don't think they make anymore. Regardless, the instructions indicate it is suitable for up to a 2800 pound car which is just enough. I can't find any reference to the wattage on mine though I don't think that is the determining factor. Newer models are suitable for heavier cars (3500 lb or 4500 lb) so I don't think you will have any problem which ever one you choose. Regarding the wiring, mine came with just bare wires, no connectors on the car end. I'm just starting my wiring and haven't addressed the power steering yet.

FWIW the picture in your link looks very similar to the one I got in the kit.

[JimLev]

I have the same unit as Davew70, it's a 170 watt unit and works just fine. A 220w unit would be fine.
The only wiring you need to connect to the car is 12 volts and ground that will power the unit when you start the car.
A third wire also connects to 12 volts that enables the Unisteer to function, if you want you can connect it to a switch that will turn the power steering on or off.