Rack & Pinion Steering Conversion

Products that improve a classic car’s safety and performance have long been the most popular upgrades, and while brake upgrades still top the “must-have” list, steering upgrades continue to gain in popularity. Let’s face it: if you’ve ever done a long trip in your classic, it can sometimes be challenging just to keep it between the lines on uneven roads. The old worm-gear steering boxes are inefficient, complex, and lack a feel for the road. As they aged, the steering only got worse, and the little adjustment there was only marginally resolved the issues with the entire system.

The most popular steering upgrade for classic cars is a conversion to rack and pinion steering, and the conversion can greatly improve the handling and responsiveness of most classic cars. Rack and pinion steering is a type of steering system that has been in use for over a century. The earliest versions of rack and pinion steering were used in the late 1800s in bicycles, but it wasn’t until the early 1900s that the technology was adapted for use in automobiles.

The rack and pinion system is more direct and responsive than other systems, and requires fewer moving parts, which means less maintenance and better reliability. Today, rack and pinion steering is the most common type of steering system used in modern automobiles, and it has evolved to include features such as variable-assist power steering and electric power steering.

To upgrade a classic car to rack and pinion steering, the first step is to select a suitable kit that is compatible with your make and model of the vehicle. The kit will typically include all the necessary components, such as the rack and pinion unit, tie rods, steering column adapter, and mounting brackets. But all kits are not equal, make certain to select a manufacturer that has built a kit designed for your application and has eliminated “bump-steer” in their design.

We join Join Mark and Gary Simpson in the shop as they take us step-by-step through the process of upgrading a 1967 Ford Mustang with a Unisteer rack and pinion conversion kit. You’ll discover just how easy it is to upgrade a classic car with a great-quality kit and have your classic steering like a modern car. They’ll even share some helpful tips and insights along the way.

Overall, upgrading a classic car to rack and pinion steering can be a challenging but rewarding project for car enthusiasts who want to improve their vehicle’s performance and handling. With the right kit and installation techniques, the result can be a safer and more enjoyable and precise driving experience.