Ok, Trying to figure out which is better


My question is,

the ratio 20:1, is that better for less physical turning.

or is the 12:1 better,

basically less steering wheel turns is hte question,

thanks!!!!!!

If you are using power steering, the effort will be the same on both. Just fewer turns with the 12-1 box. We're using a '72 variable ration power steering box on our '69 Chevelle. It's about 3 1/4 turns lock to lock. Suits us fine. It has some feel and is common to find in "A" bodies from that era.

If you are talking about a manual steering system, because of the high steering effort I would imagine that a steering gear box with a 12:1 ratio would be very difficult to static steer (i.e. car stopped, brakes applied, turn steering wheel to get out of a tight parking place). With the car rolling, the effort would probably be acceptable. The fact that you have a 350 rather than a BB is a help.

The 20:1 ratio box would still have high effort but would be manageable if you have a lot of slow speed, static steering situations.

so basically the lower ratio:1 is better, whether it be on Ps or not!!!!!

thanks guys!!!!

Originally posted by kev69350:
so basically the lower ratio:1 is better, whether it be on Ps or not!!!!!

thanks guys!!!! This sounds just a bit simplistic and definitely not what Jim said...

A lower ratio will A) make the wheels turn faster compared to steering wheel movement and B) make it take more effort to actually move the wheels because there is less leverage. My experience is that the latter makes lower ratios with manual steering much more physical.

Lower is great if you have power assist. I might think long and hard before going to a low ratio with a totally manual setup.