Reproduction Parts for 1916-1964 Chevrolet Passenger Cars & 1918-1987 Chevrolet & GMC Trucks
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Does anyone own or have owned a 53-54 with factory power steering? I purchased a complete 53 P/S unit (tie rod ends to steering wheel) many,many years ago at Carlisle with the intent to install it in my 51 wagon. That was 30 + years ago and just now taking a closer look at the unit, I find the center link and pitman arm have been welded and fish plated. Is this a problem with the power steering on these years or just result of abuse. I will only use what I need that isn't damaged but I would greatly appreciate any advice as to whether or not it's even worth the trouble to do this retro fit or keep it manual.
I dont know about the US regulations but here in Aus if a steering or suspension component has been heat treated or welded after manufacture is fails annual registration inspection, generally the failure is immediate and repairs most be be done by the workshop where the inspection is done or towed away. For that reason I would not be using that part for anything other than workshop decoration.
Tony
@anthony-williamson I don't intend on using any of the welded / damaged parts as I'm leaving my undamaged parts in place. My concern is to the integrity of the OEM setup from the factory in the first place. If anyone has driven a 53-54 power steering car I would appreciate their opinion on whether it's worth the effort of the install.
Michael, at the top of the page is a Roster button. Click that then click Vehicle Roster. You can search for all members with 53's and 54's and get their contact information. A few emails should get you all the info you need.
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Michael we have a 54 with power steering and in the last almost 8 years have put about 10,000 miles on it with no problems. I think the power steering is well worth it. The building that it is in I have to go back and forth a few times to get close to the wall, that’s where I really enjoy it.
I’m don’t remember all the details but when we were at a meet I was talking to a member that was well versed on early power steering. I was surprised at all the different parts on one with or without power steering.
Denny
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@dennis-christianson Thank you for the info! I have to replace the motor as well so that is when I will tackle the job. One more question, does it require a double (2 belt) crank pulley or just one belt? That is the only part I do not have.
@dennis-christianson The 235 I will be replacing is out of a 57 handyman wagon that I had to sell with the agreement I retain the rebuilt 235 in the car. I had put a P/S generator on that motor so if I can not find the correct pulley, I'll just use the piggy back pump off of the 57 with the single belt.
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