Power steering rack

I was thinking about fitting a power steering rack to my KVA based GT40; I am looking at a Ford Sierra Cosworth rack as a possibility, problem is I am not sure what is in there at the moment but I think it may be a Ford Granada rack - has anybody tried this before and would it be ok to fit the power steering rack without actually hooking up to the pump or would this have to all be done at once?

Hi jkyle

The rack fitted to your car should be a Cortina Mk1/11/111.
I have no idea if the Sierra Cosworth rack will fit.

Wouldn't it be easier to go down the gym and build your arm muscles up? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

Brian.

I can give you dimensions of Sierra Cosworth Rack + photo if it helps and YES you would definately need to hook up the pump as soon as you wanted to drive it cos you'll need arms like an 'ape' without it. I know cos I've driven one without engine running (towed) and steering was a real bitch! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif

MkI and MkII Cortinas did not have rack & pinion steering. Would therefor have to be Mk III or above (or Escort???).

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The rack fitted to your car should be a Cortina Mk1/11/111.

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The rack fitted to your car is almost certainly a Cortina III/IV/V rack. The Sierra rack might fit with a lot of bodging, but be sure to check that it is for leading steering arms as in the Granada uprights, or you might just find that the car goes left when you turn the wheel to the right!
The most practical way to put PAS in your car is to fit a motor assisted steering column, as fitted to Corsas, Citroen AX, some Peugeots and other cars. They sell for around £50-£70 on ebay, and can be set up to vary the amount of assistance by sensing the input force, very clever!

I have explored this avenue extensively, as many rally guys use them on their Mk1 and 2 Escorts, and as they are electically powered, they don't sap any engine power. I have several different types in my workshop, so if you want to see what they look like, you are very welcome.

I've also got a Sierra Cosworth rack lying around too.
Mike

A friend of mine has fitted a vauxhall electric power steering COLUMN to his cobra. He says it's transformed it and can be turned off if needed. This may be the way to go.

Simon

ps, I thing it's possible to partially disable the column for "town driving"

I stand corrected. I should know by now not to trust my memory and I only bought one two weeks ago!

Brian.

I guess one of the most important points would be to make sure that the new rack provides the correct geometry so you don´t get bumpsteer. Then you can choose whatever you want!