Yes, another steering box question???

[kelseydum]

Edited to say the box pictured is not a Mustang steering box.

There are several threads I've read through here, KB and other sites on traditional steering and setting either a mustang steering box (under the frame or upside down) or spending some serious dough on a reversed corvair box. I have access to several mustang boxes and a few Maverick and Comet boxes which seem to be identical to the Mustang box. I need a little help from those who have used the Mustang box in this way. I have 8" from the bottom of my frame to the ground at the lowest possible point. From the inside of the frame to the outside of my hairpins is about 5". If I were to mount the box under my frame the measurements say I can fit it in there. My question is how low will the box drop down from the bottom of the frame (I have 8" to the ground)?

Also, does drilling a hole in the side of the frame compromise the integrity of the frame if you patch all pre-existing holes? Here's a link to wht I'm talking about.

http://killbillet.com/showthread.php?t=2045&highlight=mustang+steering&page=3

Also, does the Mustang box need to be mounted at an angle like Grouchy's here... http://killbillet.com/showthread.php?t=8347&highlight=mustang+steering ... or do I just need to position the box to fit the pitman arm to the angle of my steering arm?

Is this too many questions? It's been a looooooong day and I may be able to score a great bed with the steering box. I hope this thread can clear up any question with other new rodders!

Thanks in advance,
Kelsey

 

[Abomb]

It looks like a good location in the pictures above. The drag link angle you have going there will give a minimum of bumpsteer.

 

[bob w]

Kelsey, Go to the TECH TIPS section and search for a thread entitled "Avoiding Bump Steer". It will show that a Mustang box is not a good choice with radius rods or hairpins. Also, I have a 70's magazine that says a Corvair box should not be used in anything heavier than a T Bucket, although I have done it and so have many others. I cringe every time I hit a pot hole though.
There are probably guys that have used Mustang boxes and got satisfactory results. If the front suspension travel is small, an inch or two, it probably works out ok. Someone here will be able to tell you if the pitman arm on a Mustang box can be easily repositioned, or "clocked". Many boxes have from one to four thick splines that dictate the positioning of the pitman arm. You can grind the thick spline(s) out of the pitman arm and then position it as you wish.

 

[sinatrakool]

Kelsey, have you thought about an F1 box, or maybe even cross steer?

 

[Thunder1]

Kelsey, have you thought about an F1 box, or maybe even cross steer?

How about a Vega box with cross steer? I've seen alot of those set up's and I know alot of guys running that combination without any problems with bump steer etc..