Lock to Lock on Rack and Pinion

DocDirk · #1 (**permalink**) 05-04-2009, 06:35 PM

I'm about to replace the POS power assisted rack and pinion setup that came with my kit. I know not all cars or drivers like the same setups, but has anyone input on benefits/disadvantages of different turns lock-to-lock? I intend this car for purely street use but enjoy the twisties too, just don't plan to race it.

Thanks!

Dirk

FWB · #2 (**permalink**) 05-04-2009, 09:09 PM

why is it a POS? what is vern using these days, mustang II? or fox body mustang?

DocDirk · #3 (**permalink**) 05-05-2009, 08:46 AM

What Vern's using nowadays I cannot venture to guess. He's been incommunicado for months and his office has failed to answer emails and phone messages for so long I quit trying. Much of the "new" hardware on his kit as I purchased it was probably pick 'n pull sourced. I was too stupid to pay close attention back then. Ask anyone else who's building a West Coast the last couple of years if they're delighted with the quality of goods Vern supplied on their chassis.

Just my 2c.

Any opinion on advantages/disadvantages of higher/lower turns lock to lock?

Dirk

Dirk

strictlypersonl · #4 (**permalink**) 05-05-2009, 09:35 AM

More turns lock-to-lock > lighter steering effort, less "sensitive" steering.

Fewer turns > heavier steering, more responsive feel.

FWB · #5 (**permalink**) 05-05-2009, 09:39 AM

dirk,
its ok, take a breath. look for some casting numbers on the rack housing, it may even have a tag on it. if you can't find any take a pic and measure the length of the housing. there are various ratios of racks depending on what car they are from. we need to determine the kind of rack.
i do believe it is mustang II but vern could have changed that. i want to be sure.

Fred

Frank Messina · #6 (**permalink**) 05-05-2009, 04:01 PM

I've had both the Fox 2.5 (GT) and 3.0 (standard) turns LTL power assisted racks in my car. There is a 2.25 also but forget that. With the 2.5 you need to be paying attention every minute (sneeze and you change lanes) and I found it very difficult to be smooth on high speed cornering. More like connect the dots. The 2.5 is great if you are going to autocross the car otherwise the 3.0 is the ticket. Very smooth, controllable and still very responsive to hand movement.
Frank