I have a 68 Chevelle, with a small block, and manual steering. I'd like to convert to fast ratio power steering. I'm currently using the pass side alternator mount, and pulleys off an 80 Camaro. I also have the power steering brackets, pump, and pulley from the same Camaro. I think I'd like to try to use a Jeep Grand Cherokee fast ratio p/s box. The Camaro pump, and box used metric fittings, as does the Jeep box.

Can I use the power steering hoses for the Camaro? I'm pretty sure the fittings would be right (both metric), but I'm not sure about the length and shape of the hoses. Also, I need a new tank and fill cap (w/dipstick) for the pump. Where do I get these? For all I know, you get a new tank with a new pump. I plan on replacing the pump, as it's pretty nasty, I'm just using it for fitting purposes and I know it fits the brackets I have.

I've searched th forums, but didn't find anything. It seems that most people use the pump appropriate for the year car they have, and then use conversion fittings on the factory hoses to connect to a newer metric box. I don't think I can do that.... the 80 Camaro pump mounts a little differently than the earlier chevelles, so I don't think the original chevelle hoses would fit right. Not to mention, I'd need conversion fittings at both ends of the hoses. There has to be a stock metric/metric set of hoses that'd fit pretty good..... I hope! :)

chris

I would be willing to bet that the stock Camaro hoses would work, they should be an acceptable lenght. The fittings will work fine.

As for the pump, you get the entire unit when you buy new.

Thanks Bryan, I thought that the Camaro hoses might work. Only one way to find out! :) I'll need a conversion rag joint as well, right?

Any suggestions on the best place to buy this stuff? There's a Napa nearby that I'll try, just need to check prices before I order them. I don't want to pay out the nose, but I don't want cheaply rebuilt parts either.

Thanks again!
chris

I don’t know how the quality is for the items you are looking for is at the parts stores, but I would guess that one is as good as the other, just buy based on price.

As for the new rag joint (flexible coupler) about 1977 or so, GM switched to a 3/4" (O.D.) input shaft. Your 1968 Chevelle has a 13/16" (O.D.) input shaft. This isn't a big deal, if you aren't the junkyard type or whatever the case, Lee Manufacturing ((818)768-0371 (talk to Tom Lee or his wife, they are very knowledgeable and can help with other steering questions as well) can set you up with a flexible coupling (rag joint) that will fit, I think the cost is about $45, but it may be a little higher. If you prefer the junkyard route like myself, you can get a rag joint from a 1977-1982 Chevy or GMC 2wd or 4wd pick-up trucks, 1983-1986 2wd only pick up trucks. 1977-1978 Camaros and Firebirds work as well as 1977-1979 Nova's. Any of these will allow you to connect your new late model steering gear to your column. Now, if you prefer brand new GM parts, General Motors has a flexible coupler available as part number 7826542. It is fairly expensive (around $109 list) but it is brand new and can be easily obtained from you local GM dealer or online at www.partszoneonline.com

Good Luck

I used a pressure hose from a 92 Camaro on mine. The return hose (I bought it for the fitting, basically) was from the dealer and came from a 92-ish Chevy 1500 pickup. I'm running the serpentine setup off of a 92 Camaro, but I'm pretty sure the pump is in the same position (or close enough) as the original brackets. I would have gone the Lee Manufacturing route, but I felt better having honest o-ring fittings to put in it. I did buy the Lee rag joint, however. Nice piece! I'll put up a picture in a couple of minutes...

Ryan

http://www.chevelles.com/showroom/Elusive_R/DSCN1281_small.jpg

I got just enough of the steering box in the picture that you can see the hoses.