Electric Power Steering in a 78 FJ40.
- Thread starter thecrazygreek
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I'm subscribing, too. Power steering is the next big job I had planned, and I really like the look of this one.
Subscribed! Very interested in this install and if it is a suitable / effective option...
Hi,
I finished installation of the EZ steering kit into my '82 BJ42 24V diesel EUR version about two weeks ago.
After (only a few) kilometers, first impression is very positive. Just returned from a test ride after installing a smaller steering wheel. It's an old MOMO D=36cm, which caused me some difficulties to purchase the right hub.
Especially with the small steering, characteristic of the whole car has changed very much, drives like a go-kart now - at least when I forget about the low HP
Install is easy, Kit is certified by TUEV, which is very important here in Germany if you want your car to be street-legal (nearly everything you bolt into your car needs to be approved and certified).
In case the EPS fails, steering behaves as before install. Electric support is only active and noticeable when force is needed, Steering returns to zero-position like before. Other than for modern cars, support is not speed dependent, but it's adjustable between 'nothing' and 'more than enough'.
So far I can see nearly no negative aspects, only (perhaps) negative point - the maximum power is limited. Enough for street and/or trailer use, even with a small steering wheel, but by far not as powerful as the J4 hydraulic system. It uses a 40Amp fuse, I measured a max draw of 35Amp@12V.
Unfortunately there is no real 24V version available, a 24/12V converter is required, or has to be be connected to left battery plus a balancer (like I did).
Let me know if you have further questions - or wait for crazygeeks report...
Peter
I finished installation of the EZ steering kit into my '82 BJ42 24V diesel EUR version about two weeks ago.
After (only a few) kilometers, first impression is very positive. Just returned from a test ride after installing a smaller steering wheel. It's an old MOMO D=36cm, which caused me some difficulties to purchase the right hub.
Especially with the small steering, characteristic of the whole car has changed very much, drives like a go-kart now - at least when I forget about the low HP
Install is easy, Kit is certified by TUEV, which is very important here in Germany if you want your car to be street-legal (nearly everything you bolt into your car needs to be approved and certified).
In case the EPS fails, steering behaves as before install. Electric support is only active and noticeable when force is needed, Steering returns to zero-position like before. Other than for modern cars, support is not speed dependent, but it's adjustable between 'nothing' and 'more than enough'.
So far I can see nearly no negative aspects, only (perhaps) negative point - the maximum power is limited. Enough for street and/or trailer use, even with a small steering wheel, but by far not as powerful as the J4 hydraulic system. It uses a 40Amp fuse, I measured a max draw of 35Amp@12V.
Unfortunately there is no real 24V version available, a 24/12V converter is required, or has to be be connected to left battery plus a balancer (like I did).
Let me know if you have further questions - or wait for crazygeeks report...
Peter
Good feed back Peter. I'm in the process of building one. Waiting for a few more parts.
Sub'd. I've been waiting for a writeup/review ...
- Thread starter
- #29
So I have begun the install.so far so good. Old column is out prepping new one for install. Transferring ignition assembly signal switch etc. I am currently scratching my head on how to get the flange that's just on the firewall to mount on the new column.
Pictures soon.
Maybe racers 65 can enlighten me on that flange piece I just can't see how to mount it on the new column.
Pictures soon.
Maybe racers 65 can enlighten me on that flange piece I just can't see how to mount it on the new column.
- Thread starter
- #31
Here's what I'm talking about. somehow this flange has the mount between the area where it bolts to the steering box and the firewall, not sure how that's done.
- Thread starter
- #34
I do think that the two fasteners you see in the picture more towards the ignition side need to be loosened. I think maybe once that's done we can pull the shaft out and put the flange on. It's not in the instructions I went online and read through them completely.
I think you're right, but I'll check with the factory. I should be able to confirm by Monday.
You're right about the install guide. I'll have the factory updated it with more clarity.
I was going to talk to them anyways. We're putting together a kit for TLC to put onto a '67.
Based on the pics I've seen I believe the shaft is held in place by the motor and gearing, there's probably a way to release the shaft by either removing the motor or some other type of locking mechanism.
- Thread starter
- #37
I thought I read some specific warning regarding not releasing the motor from the shaft. Anyhoo, I'll dig further.
May end up cutting the flange down the middle. :0
May end up cutting the flange down the middle. :0
Right, don't go there yet. It's gotta be something simple...
I'm in the process of building one of these - I suspect the components I'm using and the EZ off-the-shelf are very very similar. Try removing the outer tube below the power assist. There is most likely a coupler on the inner 3/4" shaft - hopefully not welded on both sides. Mine will have the coupler welded to the shaft and a splined connection to the box's output shaft with two Allen set screws. Bet yours is the same.
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