I've got a 12.6:1 straight ratio steering gear brand new from GM, normally used on an IROC 3rd gen Camaro.

Can I use it on my '66 Elco?

Your 1966 steering gear box had 87 degrees of pitman shaft sweep (full lock to full lock). The third generation Camaro steering gears had only 64 to 70 degrees of sweep. You will be increasing your turning circle by quite a bit with the Camaro gear. I would suggest using a 1992 through 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee steering gear. It will have the same sweep as your 1966 gear box plus it is a 12.7:1 ratio as well.

The Camaro boxes can be disassembled and parts removed and replaced to get the box to the 87 degree sweep. But it is not an easy job. The aluminum end cover must be replaced or the projections on the side of the cover that is inside the gear must be milled off. Then the rack must be removed so that two large snap rings that are deep inside the gear can be taken out and thrown away.

JIML82,

Thanks for the good info. I like actual data like that.

I heard today that the S-10 optional box is a usable fast steerbox with no mods. YQ-8 suspension option?
Have you ever heard of this?

I'm assuming that the Jeep uses a Saginaw box. Still available new? 12.7:1 is an ok ratio.

Thanks again for the reply.

Eric

I don't have the specs on the S-10 gear box. This paper along with the spec sheets might be a big help for you.

http://www.corvettefaq.com/acar/A&F-CarFastRatioGearRev21DE04.doc

The Jeep Grand Cherokee power steering gear is a Saginaw manufactured gear. It will bolt right into your 66 the same as the 3rd Gen Camaro gear. You will have to obtain a flexible coupling and use either hoses with metric nuts and o-ring tube ends or use the Lee Manufacturing adapters. All of this is explained in detail in the above paper.

Jim