I'm looking to buy a new steering box for my 70 Chevelle and hoping for some suggestions. The 'Velle will have a 502, disc brakes, power steering, and be an almost-daily driver. Looking at Summit's choices, 4 AGRs; 2 are 12:1 and 2 are variable ratio 13-16:1. What do you all suggest?:confused: Also, is the rust inhibitor coating worth it? And would I need to paint the others?

Thanks for the help,
Mike

We are a dealer for AGR and less than impressed overall. NO major issues but not the best box out there. I suggest getting a Lee box from Marcus at SC&C. I hope to be carrying their boxes soon.

Mike

I would send your old box to someone like Power Steering Services, Inc and have it rebuilt to fast 12:1 ratio. Waranteed for as long as you own it, and comes back painted. Hard to beat IMO.

I bought a unit from OPG about 12:1 ratio I believe and the difference on my car was tremendous. The "feel" is somewhat like a newer car and no more 1 finger over assisted power steering.:yes:

Anyone using the variable ratio unit? Can you comment on the results?

Variable ratio was standard in 70. It's OK.

So I'm taking it that the variable ratio is not as preferable?

Not as fast. If you have a 70 now, that's what you have. (your sig) If you're happy with it, leave it alone. Otherwise have it rebuilt or buy one.

The problem with the Saginaw variable ratio power gear is the following. Most gear ratios back in the 1970s were around 15 to 17 to one on center. So to reduce the number of steering wheel turns Saginaw came up with a variable ratio power gear. A gear that had a ratio of 16 to one on center. Then it became a much faster ratio as you neared full lock. So the on center feel was basically like a 1970s vehicle - just less turns lock to lock.

Most people today like their on center ratio around 12.7 or 14 to one.

Jim

You guys rock:disco:. Think I'll either go with the Lee from Mark (since I already send one paycheck a month to him) or the AGR from Summit. Going with the 12:1 regardless. Thanks for the answers. Mike