Fast ratio steering box???

[HAFROD]

Went to my local parts store to check on a rebuilt steering box for my 78 Cutlass Salon. I thought about updating to a fast ratio but which one do I need? He said one has a round ring on top and the other has a bolt on top plate. I need the flare fitting hose style. So what vehicle do I tell them?

 

[Evan11]

Went to my local parts store to check on a rebuilt steering box for my 78 Cutlass Salon. I thought about updating to a fast ratio but which one do I need? He said one has a round ring on top and the other has a bolt on top plate. I need the flare fitting hose style. So what vehicle do I tell them?

Just tell them a steering box for a 78 Cutlass Calais, that will get you what you want.

 

[ssn696]

The best choice is a Monte SS box. 12.7:1 2.5 turns lock to lock. www.rockauto.com "ATSCO Part # 6561 Remanufactured Power Steering; Sport Steering, 2.5 Turns" also found in Camaros and Firebirds.
The trick is that you must have the 800 box now or find one from a G-body to donate the pitman arm. The 800 box has a square top with four bolts. The 605 box has a round top and circlip. The splined shafts are different diameters.
You will have to use the later model hoses with the O-ring. If you're putting a new 'box in, put a new pump and hoses in as well. No need to crap it up with old junky fluid. Order a pump from a 1985 Monte - no serpentine system. It will have the right hose fitting. Make sure you follow the directions to bleed the air out. Cycle the box back and forth with the wheels of the ground or the fluid will foam up and howl for days.

 

[jiho]

Or you can buy a brand new pitman arm from www.southwestspeed.com for $60, part #107-176. Works great.

BTW, the Cardone 27-6550 reman is the same gear.