Check out his home-made power steering swap job - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Lane · 06-03-2008, 01:10 PM

I meant THIS home-made job...

When I bought the truck I noticed - even just pushing it around - how the steering felt kind of funky. Started tearing into it and found this beauty:

The hole behind it:

Starting the repair:

Finished - with the CPP kit: Not having the original holes to use as guides that the CPP kit calls for made it interesting..

**raggedjim** · 06-03-2008, 01:59 PM

That's incredible...

Rg

joe231 · 06-03-2008, 02:15 PM

WOW!
what a mess, your fixed her up right nice though, kudos!!

Rogue 64 · 06-03-2008, 02:30 PM

One of mine used old lugnuts to space it off.

Scary!

kevindtimm · 06-03-2008, 02:39 PM

The funny thing is, he had the right idea. The frame is not strong enough to support the torque of the PS gear and so he 'gussetted' it.

Unfortunately, after he did that, what little was left of the frame was probably weaker than it was originally.

Nice job on your repair though

Lane · 06-03-2008, 02:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rogue 64

One of mine used old lugnuts to space it off.

Scary!

Yeah - there were some lugnuts in this deal too...

joe231 · 06-03-2008, 03:35 PM

I just saw a frame that had no spacers, they just tightened the front bolts first then the back so the gear box was cock-eyed. people do some crazy chit

TINKERDUKE · 06-03-2008, 03:59 PM

Thanks for sharing, that was one major bodge up

Cool repair.

Steve.

**raggedjim** · 06-03-2008, 04:08 PM

Lane, what are you supporting with the bricks? They make horrible jack stands... I used to use concrete blocks and about got crushed doing it...

Rg

Fred T · 06-03-2008, 04:30 PM

He didn't try welding the box on the frame?

Seriously, let me ask some questions about what you have done. I think I am seeing an unwelded crack in your repair. If so, take off the new box and fix it now. Drill a hole at the very end of the crack, then bevel the edges and weld on both sides.

Also, are the plates under the box sitting flat against the frame? If not, grind the welds while you have things apart.

I would also recommend either welding the plates to the frame or locally boxing the frame. If you box, leave things open enough to unbolt the steering gear.

I would also give a lot of thought toward sending the frame out for straightening before mounting any sheet metal.

joe231 · 06-03-2008, 04:39 PM

with this kit, does the box only mount with 3 bolts?

Lane · 06-03-2008, 05:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by raggedjim

Lane, what are you supporting with the bricks? They make horrible jack stands... I used to use concrete blocks and about got crushed doing it...

Rg

I was using them when I was test-fitting the I6 before I got the 5.3 that's in it now. Can't remember why I was using bricks for that purpose though.. lol

**scotts62** · 06-03-2008, 05:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by joe231

I just saw a frame that had no spacers, they just tightened the front bolts first then the back so the gear box was cock-eyed. people do some crazy chit

all fun n games until you cant steer or stop

Nice work on the fix, Lane

Lane · 06-03-2008, 06:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by joe231

with this kit, does the box only mount with 3 bolts?

No - it has four, but one goes in from a different side.

joe231 · 06-03-2008, 07:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lane

No - it has four, but one goes in from a different side.

i see 4 bolts, but only 3 go to the box, and the 4th is only bolted to the bracket, what about the 4th box hole???

Iron-Butt · 06-03-2008, 08:20 PM

Wow what a mess that was. Nice job fixing it.

greg64 · 06-03-2008, 08:32 PM

Nice job Lane. I had to do something similar on my 77, but at least there was no P.O. to mess things up! I welded a heavy backing plate behind the original side rail, because these trucks (73-87) are known for cracking at this location.

But, like Fred said, if that one seam isn't welded, fix it now.

Lane · 06-03-2008, 08:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fred T

He didn't try welding the box on the frame?

Seriously, let me ask some questions about what you have done. I think I am seeing an unwelded crack in your repair. If so, take off the new box and fix it now. Drill a hole at the very end of the crack, then bevel the edges and weld on both sides.

Also, are the plates under the box sitting flat against the frame? If not, grind the welds while you have things apart.

I would also recommend either welding the plates to the frame or locally boxing the frame. If you box, leave things open enough to unbolt the steering gear.

I would also give a lot of thought toward sending the frame out for straightening before mounting any sheet metal.

Yes - the plate was welded to the frame. The spot you're pointing to is a slightly ground down weld. The plate under the box is very snug against the frame - and the one on the other side is pretty snug. I could probably do more grinding to flush it up more. I do plan on welding the plates to the frame, but hadn't thought about boxing the frame there - which is a good idea, and I'll probably do that too.

I've measured the frame front and back and it is pretty square - for such an old truck. All my measurements were within a 1/4" or so, and only in a couple of places was that far off. Not sure what the factory tolerances were, but I bet it's close. I may have it looked at anyway, just to be sure.

Thanks for the comments.

Lane · 06-03-2008, 08:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by joe231

i see 4 bolts, but only 3 go to the box, and the 4th is only bolted to the bracket, what about the 4th box hole???

The 4th box hole is bolted/threaded to the outer plate - and hangs below the frame rail just a little. Had to go out to the garage and look at it again.. lol It's been a few months...

ClassicAutoResto · 06-03-2008, 10:08 PM

Hey I've seen that work before is that from Bob Chopenhack's shop??

Jerry

joe231 · 06-04-2008, 01:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lane

The 4th box hole is bolted/threaded to the outer plate - and hangs below the frame rail just a little. Had to go out to the garage and look at it again.. lol It's been a few months...

oh, cool. makes sense now, lol.
thanks

**ChiefRocka** · 06-04-2008, 09:36 AM

Before boxing that are, I would recommend a verticle plate welded in there as well...up and down, inside the frame rail between the bolts.

Weld up the entire plate, then box in....otherwise it looks good.
-
-
Kinda like this....sorry my 3D paint skills are not all that !!
-
-

Lane · 06-04-2008, 10:47 AM

Good idea - too.

Glad I posted this.. I think.. lol

Alan's Classic · 06-04-2008, 09:29 PM

I'm glad I read this post. I knew about the spacers, but didn't consider boxing. Ya'll saved me cause I hope to be painting my frame this summer.

06-03-2008, 01:10 PM	#1
Lane Registered User Join Date: May 2007 Location: Fort Worth, TX Posts: 172	Check out his home-made power steering swap job I meant THIS home-made job... When I bought the truck I noticed - even just pushing it around - how the steering felt kind of funky. Started tearing into it and found this beauty: The hole behind it: Starting the repair: Finished - with the CPP kit: Not having the original holes to use as guides that the CPP kit calls for made it interesting.. __________________ My junk - http://s117.photobucket.com/albums/o60/Lane40/ www.wheelpros.com Last edited by Lane; 06-03-2008 at 08:18 PM.

06-03-2008, 01:59 PM	#2
raggedjim Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Murray, Kentucky Posts: 3,485	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job That's incredible... Rg __________________ Roger '68 Short step - https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=849675 '69 ('70?) 2wd Blazer '70 GMC Jimmy 2wd '73 Firebird - https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=853203 Ideas - https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=851743

06-03-2008, 02:15 PM	#3
joe231 Registered User Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Palmer, Alaska Posts: 13,821	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job WOW! what a mess, your fixed her up right nice though, kudos!! __________________ *CHEVY ONLY*

06-03-2008, 02:30 PM	#4
Rogue 64 Ol' Blue Viking Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: north of Baton Rouge Posts: 172	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job One of mine used old lugnuts to space it off. Scary! __________________ Driving Paw-paws truck into the Sunset!

06-03-2008, 02:39 PM	#5
kevindtimm Registered User Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Allen,TX Posts: 170	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job The funny thing is, he had the right idea. The frame is not strong enough to support the torque of the PS gear and so he 'gussetted' it. Unfortunately, after he did that, what little was left of the frame was probably weaker than it was originally. Nice job on your repair though

06-03-2008, 03:35 PM	#7
joe231 Registered User Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Palmer, Alaska Posts: 13,821	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job I just saw a frame that had no spacers, they just tightened the front bolts first then the back so the gear box was cock-eyed. people do some crazy chit __________________ *CHEVY ONLY*

06-03-2008, 03:59 PM	#8
TINKERDUKE Registered User Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: ENGLAND, UK Posts: 97	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job Thanks for sharing, that was one major bodge up Cool repair. Steve.

06-03-2008, 04:08 PM	#9
raggedjim Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Murray, Kentucky Posts: 3,485	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job Lane, what are you supporting with the bricks? They make horrible jack stands... I used to use concrete blocks and about got crushed doing it... Rg __________________ Roger '68 Short step - https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=849675 '69 ('70?) 2wd Blazer '70 GMC Jimmy 2wd '73 Firebird - https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=853203 Ideas - https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=851743 Last edited by raggedjim; 06-03-2008 at 04:09 PM.

06-03-2008, 04:30 PM	#10
Fred T Cantankerous Geezer Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Bel Aire, KS Posts: 6,264	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job He didn't try welding the box on the frame? Seriously, let me ask some questions about what you have done. I think I am seeing an unwelded crack in your repair. If so, take off the new box and fix it now. Drill a hole at the very end of the crack, then bevel the edges and weld on both sides. Also, are the plates under the box sitting flat against the frame? If not, grind the welds while you have things apart. I would also recommend either welding the plates to the frame or locally boxing the frame. If you box, leave things open enough to unbolt the steering gear. I would also give a lot of thought toward sending the frame out for straightening before mounting any sheet metal. Attached Images __________________ Fred There is no such thing as too much cam...just not enough engine.

06-03-2008, 04:39 PM	#11
joe231 Registered User Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Palmer, Alaska Posts: 13,821	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job with this kit, does the box only mount with 3 bolts? __________________ *CHEVY ONLY*

06-03-2008, 08:20 PM	#16
Iron-Butt 454 club Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Oklahoma Posts: 1,348	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job Wow what a mess that was. Nice job fixing it. __________________ David 1965 Chevrolet c-10 454 automatic Custom bbw swb. 1965 Chevrolet C-10 swb (Sold) 1963 Chevrolet C-10 6 Cyl automatic with dual exhaust, pb, ps and 17's. R.I.P "I will miss you. 1967 Chevrolet C-10 6 Cyl Custom lwb 1939 Chevrolet Coupe, 350 v8 automatic. 1935 Chevrolet 2 Dr Standard in the works. 2015 Harley Davidson Street Glide. 2023 Chevrolet Stingray Z51 Convertible. I never want to grow up.

06-03-2008, 08:32 PM	#17
greg64 Registered User Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Kimberley, BC, Canada Posts: 799	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job Nice job Lane. I had to do something similar on my 77, but at least there was no P.O. to mess things up! I welded a heavy backing plate behind the original side rail, because these trucks (73-87) are known for cracking at this location. But, like Fred said, if that one seam isn't welded, fix it now. __________________ Greg 64 GMC Suburban - 283, NV3500, 14 bolt 77 C10 swb - 292, SM465, 12 bolt

06-03-2008, 10:08 PM	#20
ClassicAutoResto Rust Buster Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Lebanon, Ky Posts: 558	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job Hey I've seen that work before is that from Bob Chopenhack's shop?? Jerry

06-04-2008, 09:36 AM	#22
ChiefRocka Hollister, CA. Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Hollister, Ca. Posts: 6,150	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job Before boxing that are, I would recommend a verticle plate welded in there as well...up and down, inside the frame rail between the bolts. Weld up the entire plate, then box in....otherwise it looks good. - - Kinda like this....sorry my 3D paint skills are not all that !! - - __________________ John What the Heck is that ?? CURRENT BUILDS: 62 BurbMaster Other Builds: My '63 C-10,LWB,CC,BBW '06 HD StrAight Axle Swap Father/Son '67 C-20, LQ9,4L80,Bagged,8-Lugger !!Good Friend Richard's Build AMERICAN CUSTOMS & CLASSICS (831) 630-1965 www.ACCHOLLISTER.com ACC on FACEBOOK "Rest in Peace, Mom & Dad ... I will see you again someday!" Last edited by ChiefRocka; 06-04-2008 at 09:40 AM.

06-04-2008, 10:47 AM	#23
Lane Registered User Join Date: May 2007 Location: Fort Worth, TX Posts: 172	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job Good idea - too. Glad I posted this.. I think.. lol __________________ My junk - http://s117.photobucket.com/albums/o60/Lane40/ www.wheelpros.com



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06-04-2008, 09:29 PM	#24
Alan's Classic 1 thing at a time is progress. Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Ball Ground GA Posts: 5,511	Re: Check out his home-made power steering swap job I'm glad I read this post. I knew about the spacers, but didn't consider boxing. Ya'll saved me cause I hope to be painting my frame this summer. __________________ Alan Philippians 2:14-16 Alan's Classic Facebook page. North Georgia Group Project 1965 Vitamin C-10 1995 GMC Sierra K1500 The "Wrecker"

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