60 Catalina Manual to Power Steering Conversion

[Christian]

Hi guys,

i want to convert my 60 Catalina from Manual to Power Steering.

Which parts do i need? Do i just need Steering Gear, Pump and Hoses?
Or do i have to change Idler Arm and Pitman Arm as well?

And what about the Steering Column? Any modifications?

Thanks in advance

[Frosty]

You should not have to change the idler and pitman arms per se. Now if they are worn, obviously that is a different story. 

I would suggest that you update/replace your existing rag joint as a precaution.

Steering column should not have to be changed. However, food for thought, non-power steering cars had larger diameter steering wheels to have more leverage. You may or may not want to change the steering wheel to suit your taste.

Another observation is when selecting your gearbox is choosing one with a different ratio than stock, if possible. Your stock box was probably 24:1 (about 4-5 turns lock to lock). A 16:1 or 12:1 means 3 turns. It means your steering will be faster.