cross-over power steering

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W20071
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Re: cross-over power steering

Post by W20071 »

MikeMc wrote:No u don't reinforce the frame you run a parallel rod from the frame to the axle. Just like Ford does. Look under any super duty F series 4x4 and they run the extra rod. This extra rod is what prevents the frame from twisting.
Are you talking about the track bar, like on the newer Dodge also? I haven't put anything like that on my cross over conversion but i haven't driven it yet. How necessary is it for light duty/highway use? I can't believe i didn't realize that until now :pale ,thanks for bringing this to my attention.

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Re: cross-over power steering

Post by MikeMc »

Here is a picture of my '99 F350 4x4. I high lighted the track bar. The track bar counter acts the steering arm.

Running the two parallel prevents bump steer.

W200, even though we don't turn the wheel when sitting still, there is tremendous force on the frame when maneuvering around a parking lot or tight areas. Twisting the frame back and forth will eventually cause it to crack and fail. Possibly even truck grooves and pot holes on the highway pulling the front tires side to side will accelerate the failure.
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F-350 cross brace 002.jpg
F-350 cross brace 001.jpg

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W20071
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Re: cross-over power steering

Post by W20071 »

Yes, Makes perfect sense. I am now going to fabricate something like this on mine. I didn't notice it on the other setups pictured here but I don't think it would be tough to do. I am thinking of using heim joints, would that be okay or does it need rubber dampened bushings like the OEM track bars? :thinking

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Re: cross-over power steering

Post by MikeMc »

No you don't want to use heim joints. They will directly transfer noise and vibrations. You always want rubber between independent metal. Example, motor mounts, tranny mounts, radiator mounts, cab mounts, suspension bushings. Everything is rubber mounted to keep noise and vibration to a minimum.

On my track bar I used smaller leaf spring bushings. I bought some bushings on line and they came with the outer collar for about $25 each. I mounted a bushing on the frame and one on the axle pumpkin. Made sure the truck was sitting in it's natural position on flat ground and tack welded a bar between the two. Then removed the bushing and fully welded it so the bushing would not be damaged.

Try to copy what how Ford did it. If you want to get real fancy put an adjustable collar on the track bar. So if you raise and lower your ride you can simple adjust it instead of having to cut and re-lengthen the bar.

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Re: cross-over power steering

Post by jimmy »

viewtopic.php?f=17&t=34532#p250063
This maybe a solution to cross over steering. Inverted T steering, It's found very commonly on factory rigs. It's not expensive and effective.
I used this because my big block front sump 8 qtr. oil pan and my truck is not very tall. I have limited room.
Now you have me thinking about a track bar! it never stops. lol

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Re: cross-over power steering

Post by Roxyflash »

If I owned a w 200 and wanted power steering I would go with a ram off the axle and use a gear made for it.The reason being trying to force all that force from the frame at the front of the rail is asking for problems seen many life style trucks crack the frame at the gear making for a sloppy steering.I would use a system like PSC Motor sports and mount a ram off the axle using a brace then adding the correct gear to run it.
http://www.pscmotorsports.com/vehicle-s ... m-charger/
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Re: cross-over power steering

Post by Roxyflash »

Heres a Skyjack scissor lift that uses the same theory with a ram to give you a idea what im thinking about
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Re: cross-over power steering

Post by hoon »

Pretty sure full hydraulic steering is illegal in a street driven truck. hydro assist is ok though, just need a steering box and mechanical linkage in there.
62 D300

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Re: cross-over power steering

Post by Roxyflash »

Can be made so its power assit just add the drag link so it controls the steering and use enough pressure for power assitt
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Re: cross-over power steering

Post by marklein »

What year of a gm 2wd steering box should I look for?

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