I want to convert my 65 F-100 to power steering .. I need a shorter automatic column .. Hope to get some ideas on how others have done this and if theres any aftermarket options that have been tried ...

 

I am in the middle of this process myself. I took the power steering and steering column from a 1978. As I understand it, any 1973-1978 will do the trick. I had hoped to keep the steering wheel from my 66, but I don't see a clean way to make it work.

 

Same 3 spoke steering wheel: 1960/63 Falcon/Comet / 1961/66 F100/250 2WD / 1966 F100 4WD / 1966/73 Bronco / 1967/70 F100/250 2WD/4WD / 1969/70 F350.

Ford/Saginaw integral P/S: 1969 F100/250 2WD & F350 from serial # D96,001 / 1970/79 F100/350 2WD / 1975/79 F150 2WD / 1976/79 F100/150 4WD / 1977 F250 4WD from serial # Y20,001 / 1978/79 F250 4WD / 1979 F350 4WD

Bendix P/S: 1966/68 F100/250 2WD, 1969 F100/250 2WD before serial # D96,001.

** Peeps recommend using 1973/79's cuz there's more around, most have P/S...and disc brakes.

Note: F350's were not available with Bendix P/S / 1965 F100/350's were not available with P/S

Note: 1973/75 F100 4WD, 1975 F150 4WD, 1973/77 F250 4WD (High Boys, 1977's before serial # Y20,001) were only available with Power Assist P/S

 

You can keep your steering wheel from your '66. You just have to grind off a little off the top where the steering wheel attaches. Grind it even with the threads and you will be fine. I also reused the original collar that houses the turn signal switch because the new one had a hazard switch in it and my truck already had one on the dash. Now it looks completely original.

Mark

 

66f-100, I hoped to do what you did. I'm also going from a 3 speed to an automatic and I definitely want the column shifter. I don't think there is the option of reusing the turn sig switch column. I don't have hazards so I am going to make use of the accomodation on the new column.

 

If you guys do this than put the on BEFORE grinding down the end of the shaft. That way when you are done grinding removing the nut will chase the treads. I also taper or bevel the top a little so it looks like the end of a standard bolt. Otherwise you may play he!! getting the nut started ever again. Happy New Year to all.
Arctic

 

Just a question about the cooling tube that attaches to the frame, is it really necessary?

 

I would say yes if you want to get service life out of your PS unit. As in tranny heat is your enemy here.

 

It is not, a substitute can be used. The system does need some cooling. I have seen a small one that connects to the pump. There is enough air flow going through there to support one.



John

 

I used a PS system out a a 78 lincoln it fit just fine then I put a GT steering wheel on it and hooked the horn up everything worked fine. I can send you pictures if you want

 

I just did the conversion and used a Derale (Made in USA) tranmission cooler. The only difference between that and their power steering cooler is the trans cooler has brackets for mounting. I didn't want to attach it to the radiator since I might be adding a/c down the road.


This is mounted to the inside of the frame rail using "L" brackets bent to 45 degrees.

 

I like that, I am not going to add A/C so I think I will put it up front. Thanks for the pic. And thanks to all for the help...