Date: Fri, 5 May 2006 08:56:53 -0700
Reply-To: BenT Syncro <syncro@GMAIL.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: BenT Syncro <syncro@GMAIL.COM>
Subject: Re: Power steering component differences
In-Reply-To: <20060505093903.57900.qmail@web32801.mail.mud.yahoo.com>
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On 5/5/06, Niall Mac Caughey <nmacc@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> Hi Folks,
>
> I'm in the process of buying a used PS pump, reservoir, pipes & rack to
> convert my 86. A PO fitted wider tyres and a smaller Audi steering wheel
> and my puny biceps can't handle the load.
>
> The rack comes with track rods, but I have a misty recollection that there
> might be other differences from the manual version that I'm overlooking. I
> think something was posted to the list about this in the past few months,
> but I've searched the archives and can't find it. Can anyone help me out on
> this?
>
> Thanks!
>
> Niall
Niall,
I can only surmise that your van is not a US spec van as all 86-later vans
here got PS (plus you spell "tyre" different from the way we do.). I am
assuming you are converting from a vehicle originally with manual steering.
Anyway, let me expound further on what Andrew and Mike hav already said.
First off, the track rods are interchangeable. The steering knuckles or
suspension uprights (whatever you call it on your side of the pond) is
similar. They are cast the same way but the holes for the tierod (the thing
at the end of the track rods) and drilled in a different spot. The PS
knuckles are drilled closer in with the result being less turns of the
steering wheel from lock-to-lock. The net is PS equipped vans and turn
quicker than manual vans. The mechanical advantage of this is offset by the
powersteering system. You can use your vans existing knuckles in your
conversion. Your PS system will have less work to do. I have done this very
same conversion to both a non-power early van and a late model doublecab.
As Mike mentioned, the steering shaft has a different end and a different
connector. You can adapt one over to the other but it is much simpler to
take the PS steering shaft as part of your conversion.
As for PS lines, I've always reused the old pieces from the donor vans. You
can also have a good hydraulic shop make new hoses for you instead. The hose
method is easier when compared to retrofitting the hard lines.
Don't forget the bits which are attached to the engine. You will also need
to attach a bracket for the PS reservoir towards the rear of the engine
compartment. The factory pieces are welded in. Also keep in mind there are
differences between the RHD and LHD steering racks. I have both.
Cheers,
BenT
