Another Saginaw Power Steering Box Question

[Hardcastle]

I've done a lot of searching and can't find an answer to my question. I've started my Saginaw power steering swap and I'm wondering if I have the right steering box. I bought a 3 bolt 3.5 turn box that I was told is the correct Saginaw box for this swap. (I don't know what vehicle this came from)The only issue is my input shaft is 9/16" 26 spline. It looks like most people are using 13/16 36 spline or 3/4 30 spline. The input shaft is also flat in one sections rather than having splines. Is this normal? (see pics)

Is this box still ok to use? It looks like Summit Racing sells a ujoint that will work with my steering shaft. Part number FLA-FR1709DD.

Thanks for the help.

 

[65swb45]

Since you cannot count splines all the way around the box because of the 'flat', count half way around then double the number for your theoretical full spline count.

And, chances are, if you measure across the splined section of the shaft [as opposed to something that utilizes the flat as a start or end point] you will find that the shaft is thicker than 9/16ths.

This should save you a chunk of change in returning parts that don't fit.

Best

Mark A.

 

[peesalot]

the standard box most people use is a 4.25 turn , 4 bolt mount box with the 13/16 36 spline input. You could use that box, it is IMO a little less desirable because the 3 bolt mount , meh, not a great thing. The 3.25 turn unit may prove to be a bit quicker steering but without ram assist it will be heavy, feel underpowered, and with ram assist it will be slower but strong. If you can afford it and get another I would. Napaonline.com part # 27-6529. You should also note that the box you pictured had the little tit cut off the input shaft. You will nee to cut that off if you get a new one, hacksaw or cutoff wheel. All the manufactured mount plates are for the 4 bolt that I've seen. The flat section is normal and the new box you get will have same. Never mind marks wise comments, he means well. However, the number 9/16 for an input on steering is uncommon and cause for interest. IIRC the saginaw application chart I saw at one time may have listed some boxes with this size input, I believe it did.

 

[Hardcastle]

When I measure the input shaft spline end to spline end I get 11/16 but when I measure the flat spot to spline end I get 9/16. That’s why I figured I needed the 26 spline 9/16 steering ujoint. Is this normal? Sorry for my ignorance on this topic. I haven’t dealt with many steering box input shafts and I didn’t know how I was supposed to measure.

Is there an issue running a steering box with a 9/16 input shaft?

 

[Shawn Russell]

I dont think the SIZE of the input shaft is going to be a problem as long as you can get the correct joints to hook it up the the rest of the column.

I would be more concerned with the 3 vs 4 bolt and the lock to lock turn count.

If you can live with the quick turning, then go for it.

Shawn

 

[Big B.]

Thats the same box I put on my '72 40, works like a charm and no probs with the three bolts.

 

[Hardcastle]

Thats the same box I put on my '72 40, works like a charm and no probs with the three bolts.

Did your box have the 9/16'' input shaft? I've read many people were happy with the 3 bolt 3.5 turn and that’s why I was ok with it. The odd input shaft makes me nervous. Does anyone know if it’s normal to have a flat spot like that on an input shaft?

 

[brew8]

The flat spot is where the screw in the steering shaft tightens to the side of the shaft on the box, should have a set screw to keep it tight.

 

[Hardcastle]

The flat spot is where the screw in the steering shaft tightens to the side of the shaft on the box, should have a set screw to keep it tight.

Great. That was the information I was looking for.

Thanks for all the responses. I may still buy the 4 bolt box but it looks like this one would work.