rack and pinion

Hah! There is no "inexpensive conversion". I converted my 63 Classic with a late model T-bird power rack, but it's not for the feint of heart. If you can find a Pacer you can use the steering arms from it, or make your own like I did. You still have to make a mount (not that hard) and route the steering shaft. I didn't have an issue with the steering shaft, but I'm using a 4.0L six -- more room on the driver's side than a V-8.

After all the trouble I went through to do it, I have to tell you it's not really worth it. You're just as well off to get a quick ratio steering box. Camaro boxes work -- AMC was using Saginaw steering by 66. If you are sticking with manual steering you might lose a little weight with a manual rack and pinion, but for power I'd just stick with a quick ratio box.  Rack and pinion isn't any better -- just different. I wouldn't do it again.

Get new suspension and steering components to tighten things up, and a late jeep steering gear and make an adapter. Not as expensive as a custom rack setup but will be just as good, if not better.

There is a write up on it by CamJam, I think.

You can do it if mechanically inclined without cutting and welding to make things fit. Well only the adapter plate needs measured and drilled.

http://theamcforum.com/forum/aftermarket-quick-ratio-power-steering-boxes_topic82313.html?KW=

Edited by 304-dude - Jan/30/2018 at 7:56pm

6768Rogues hit the nail on the head! It's cheaper and easier to package in a NEW car designed for it. Mainly cuts cost in assembly -- rack is shipped with rod ends attached -- two bolts on brackets, tie rod end, and rag joint and it's installed. Much quicker than four bolts on steering box, rag joint, two bolts on idler arm, install drag link on idler and pitman, then tie rods on drag link and steering arms. I'm assuming the pitman would be on the box already, but maybe not... so add that.

Drag racers like manual R&P because it is simple and reduces weight a bit. When every little bit counts to squeeze just a little less time out of a run it adds up. For a street car? Not so much.

Auto companies hype anything new as "much improved", even when it's not. R&P does the same job, but it's only "better" in that it's easier to install. The real benefit for the consumer is it's a bit easier to service. McPherson struts are actually WORSE than any unequal arm suspension. No camber change, or rather limited camber change in an arc (original McPherson strut). But it is good enough for a typical street car, and easy to assemble into a compact unit that is then easy and quick to install on a car. Only the cheapest of cars use the original type McPherson strut now , most have unequal arms with a strut replacing the spring/shock assembly. Still saves a little install time by having the unit in place of two individual components to install.