I have a 1969 Firebird that currently has manual steering. I want to convert to power steering but all the gear boxes I've found have 4 mount holes whereas my manual has only 3 mounting holes on the frame. I can't believe they made 2 seperate subframes depending on the steering. I guess I underestimated what would be involved in this conversion. I'm stuck and would really like some help. Also is the Pitman arm different on the power steering?
Semper Fi... No worries on the three bolts that is normal boxes are designed to fit several vehicles... Are you doing a full factory restoration or are you open to updated products? The conversion is easy and not too bad on price. I just finished updating my car with a modern box so I do have my old stuff sitting on the bench. I do recommend going with a modern box such as the CPP. It makes the car handle like a modern car. The original stuff is way too easy to turn and there is zero road feedback when driving.
The pitman arm as well as the drag link are a very unique part for the 1969 model year! it is not produced anymore and hard to find, as it's a non wearable item (no joint) but the drag link can get pricy. You do have a few other options but depends on what engine you have. Hope this helps
Well I'm trying to keep the car looking orignal. So I've already got a power steering gear box. Are you saying to just bolt the gear box on with 3 bolts and leave the 4th hole in the gear box open? Also I'm not sure what you mean by the drag link.
The Drag link is part of the parallellagram steering system. On most cars of this era the drag link or center link (same part different name) connects the inner tie rods to the pitman and idler arms. Most (correction All) other drag links are the female part of the connection meaning no wearable joints. The 69 bird is a one off in that the drag link has 2 male joints. This makes this a very rare but attainable $$$$ part.
Goose is correct. Only three bolt holes on the subframe. My 69 came with PS and as you can see from my subframe pic there are only three holes to mount the box on it
