[gtobird]

Folks,

I'd like to replace the gearbox in my 68 Tempest (GTO clone) wagon. Checking to see if any of you have done this type of replacement. I have a 76 TA box that I bought long ago, thinking this might be the way to go, or am I better off just buying a refreshed one? I hate doing things twice and I don't think refurbished units cost all that much anyway, but which one(s) make sense?

Another option would be to have the TA gearbox refreshed.

Yet another project for winter.

Thanks
Old Joe

[68pongto]

Powersteering.com will rebuild an original one to fast ratio and you will still have the correct turning radius.

[OG68]

Firebird and Camaro gearboxes have internal stops that limit the turning radius in the A bodies.
If you want to practice your Y turn techniques, they would be ideal.

I sent a 17.5 ratio gearbox from a 68 Chevelle to Lee Steering. They upgraded the ratio and changed the internal torsion bar for greater effort or 'road feel'

[gtobird]

Powersteering. com shows the following:

Upgrade from 20:1 (or 16:13:1) to late 1970s 14:1 ratio rebuild- $414 G01-14

Upgrade 1960 or 1970s to GMs most responsive ratio 1980s 12.7:1 - $504 G01F

I'll look at some other places like Lee Steering too.

I'd like to make it handle pretty tight and thinking the 12.7:1 is the way to go, but is it too tight?

Scott (68pongto) put a big sway bar in the front and added a rear when he had the car, so I think it would be pretty nice with the steering upgrade.

Thanks guys
Old Joe

[Murf]

I used the Jeep Grand Cherokee box on my wife’s 65. It’s a pretty common swap. I don’t remember what year I used though. I’m suffering from Oldtimers disease.
Should be lots of info on the net. I got the box for $50 at the junkyard. I had to buy a pressure hose fitting & a different rag joint. Pretty simple & cheap. I think the car drives nice.

Good luck!
Murg

[vertigto]

I went with the Borgeson 12.7:1 from Jegs on my 70.

https://www.jegs.com/i/Borgeson/153/800130/10002/-1

[OG68]

I had 12.7:1 on my 70 El Camino with the .210 (30-35#) torsion bar. It was responsive and right at 3 turns lock to lock. UMI suspension. .

With the GTO I went with 14:1 and the .210 T bar. It has the factory suspension with front and rear bars and originally had manual steering. Not installed yet.

I've had Lee convert both date correct boxes from original. You have to let them know any details regarding appearance such as paint or warranty stamp if you want it stock appearing.