_Remi

Hi friends,

I would like to get some feedback on switching from 16:1 to 19:1 on a power steering car that has been converted to manual steering. I am basically trying to make it a little bit easier to steer (tires are ok, alignement is fine).

Do you really feel a difference when you switch from 16:1 to 19:1?

Thanks,

2+2GT

Oh yeah. You have to remove the 16:1 box and put in a 19:1 box. Of course, the 16:1 box was also used on all GT and mach1 Mustangs, whether they had PS or not. 99% of the time people are looking to put in a 16:1 box, the difference is 4 turns lock-to-lock instead of 5 turns. I never liked the 19:1, even back in the day, felt too much like I was steering a boat.

urban_cowboy

It is about 20% easier steering effort. Just know that you will have a less responsive steering as well because you will have to move the wheel more to get the same tire movement. It is basically a lower gear for your steering. This can be helped by reducing the steering wheel diameter, but then you negate some of the mechanical advantage. Steering effort vs steering response is the compromise.

chockostang

That is why FORD 1nstalled the 19 to 1, or 5 Turn box in the non power steering cars. It gave one the levarege though gearing to turn the wheels.

The 16 to 1, or 4 turn "PS " Boxes had the advantge of the Hydraulics to steer the the car, Muscle was not a factor.

Dan @

Chockostang

noroof66

HUGE difference between the two. I went from 19:1 to 16:1 with manual steering and the difference ins incredible. 19:1 did not drive very well and I always felt on edge. The 16:1 really tightened up the car, but parking is a PITA. Definitely agree with above posters, there is a trade off.

Starfury

You should've asked me when you were down here; I would've let you test drive my car. I don't like my 19:1 box, and I even have a 16:1 box to replace it with (that I need to send to chokostang for a rebuild) because I really don't like it. It works for daily driving, but trying to navigate the twisties out here is a nightmare. Low speed maneuvering is very difficult when you have to keep cranking on the steering wheel.

67mustang302

I went from a 19.9:1 manual to a 16:1 Flaming River unit. I'd only recommend the 16:1 FR unit. It has upgraded bearing designs to reduce friction, which helps offset the steering effort. The effort increased slightly but not enough to really matter, but the steering is MUCH tighter and more responsive.

Mdl062573

Hi,
I’m looking to go from a 19:1 to a 16:1 steering box in my 1966 Mustang. Where there any other issues you had or was it a direct swap. I want to make sure my mechanic has everything he needs. Thank you

Mdl062573

Hi,
I’m looking to go from a 19:1 to a 16:1 steering box in my 1966 Mustang. Where there any other issues you had or was it a direct swap. I want to make sure my mechanic has everything he needs. Thank you

Mostang66

The hardest thing is dealing with the one-piece steering shaft. The car needs to be up off the ground and depending on your current exhaust system, you may have to remove the header. This is one of the best improvements I've made to my '66.