[78 GHOST]

Hi all. I wanted to update those familiar with my project, a 1970 GTO and how the suspension mods worked.

I installed a stock steering box modified to quick ratio, Polygraphite bushings, R.A.R.E. CC1 Camber Correction Kit, and some monster anti-sway bars and stock springs, and wanted to report the car handles slightly better than my old stock '78 TA did.

In the small amount of driving I've done, I've noticed immediate steering response with virtually zero body lean. On a fast sandy corner where the tires would have made some protesting noises, nothing.

As far as I'm concerned, this is a good setup and is actually very similar to those running F-Body spindles, with a QR box, and large bars.

[getmygoat]

Can you be more specific as to the monster anti sway bars?

[78 GHOST]

I believe they are Hellwig units. I bought a kit from an outfit in Phoenix, I think it was Performance Suspension Components.

The rear is a simple bolt on mod using the stock boxed lower control arms.

The front is a different matter entirely.

The diameter of the front bar dictates the usage of a larger bracket specific to the anti-sway bar. Subjecting the factory fasteners to greater stresses is just begging for a stripped fastener.

The original solution was to simply thread holes in the frame and spin a few 5/16" fasteners into these threaded holes.

I drilled the holes to 3/8", dropped in two 3/8" X 1 1/2" Grade 8 bolts, tacked them into place with a MIG so they wouldn't spin when tightened, then used these bolts to anchor the brackets which hold the anti-sway bar.

The trick is, getting the bolts to the holes from inside the frame, which absolutely cannot be accessed by hand. I used a telescoping magnet to position the bolts into the holes. Additionally, getting the bolts to the holes on the driver's side is complicated by the sleeves inside the frame rail which reinforce the three bolts which fasten the steering gearbox. On these, I fished solid wire through the frame, then tacked that to the end of the bolt and simply pulled the bolt into place.

I hope this helps you out, the finished product looks factory and works well.

[68 Goat]

How did you modified the stock steering box to a quick ratio? I have a 69 GTO that I would like to do this to. Thanks Don

[78 GHOST]

Don, here is a reply I posted a while ago:

Chip is the MAN on power steering goodies. I sent him the box on my '70 and he fixed me right up. I had him "extreme detail" the box and convert to a 12:1 ratio. I also bought the new rag joint and pump from him. His work can back up at times, be patient.

The items arrived well packed and in excellent condition. The items function perfectly. The pump and steering box are outstanding, I really like the feel of the new box with the quick ratio, and no reduction of turning radius.

Here's the website:

http://www.powersteering.com/

One thing to note is that Chip doesn't replace your box with an F-Body box which kills your turning radius, he merely modifies your existing box with quick ratio guts. Mine has worked flawlessly and I like the feel, MUCH improved over stock.

[getmygoat]

Yes, I can vouch for powersteering.com as well... I've sent two boxes there, might be sending a third soon.

The disadvantage is cost. Its about $400 for the conversion/rebuild..

Some people seem to have luck finding jeep boxes from junkyards.. Do a search.

I also tried buying a new box at the parts store... it was a firebird box with the reduced turning radius.... they've merged the part #'s for GTO and Firebird together, but the parts were different.

[68 Goat]

Thanks for the info. My car goes into the body shop late April. I'm pulling the frame out from under it to get it painted as well. This will be the perfect time to rebuild the front suspension and steering. Thanks again for your knowlegde and advice.

[78 GHOST]

While Chip is certainly not as cheap or easy as going to NAPA or Autozombie. I cannot argue with the great quality and flawless performance.