f100 steering box conversion for model a

J

jnunez1955

Member
Hey, im trying to find tech articles that will help tech me about the conversions...i did find 2 that helped a little but still very vague

here they go

http://vickyman.tripod.com/F100.html

and

http://members.fortunecity.com/pjsauber/F100Steering.htm

and i found a picture of a complete one with the modification already done.

100_0160292113645_std.jpg


in the picture the end plate looks larger then the actual box (which leaves me thinking its the model a end plate that is used, but in the first tech article i posted it says that the f100 end plate is modified and used.)

i guess i really just need more pictures of the actual conversion being done.

let me know if you find anymore tech articles about it,
 
Buy Vern Tardel's booklet called "Ford Steering, Service, Repair, & Modification". Everything you want to know about the F1 box and how to make it fit the early Ford's are in this great little book.
 
jnunez1955 said:
isnt that unit like $800+ ?
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I don't know the price, but it has a better ratio to make it steer easier, a double set of needle bearings, it uses everything original to the A box (Zero modifications necessary) and has a Lifetime warranty. Considering you might have to spend more to make the F100 box work, I would consider going long on the EZ Steer. At least, that's how I look at it. Just thought I'd throw it out there as an option for ya.
 
thanks.
actually to buy the f100 conversion is 750$ and the ez-steer is 800
but ya, it doesnt have a lifetime warranty...but im really trying to keep the car traditional with original built Henry Ford parts.
 
jnunez1955 said:
thanks.
actually to buy the f100 conversion is 750$ and the ez-steer is 800
but ya, it doesnt have a lifetime warranty...but im really trying to keep the car traditional with original built Henry Ford parts.
Click to expand...

If this is what you want to do, thoroughly rebuild your two tooth box. Make sure it is adjusted properly. Make sure the other components in the steering mechanism and suspension are properly rebuilt. Install a shortened pitman arm. Install Teflon fittings in the Steering Arms/Tie Rod Ends (be sure the balls are "as new" and polished). This setup will approach the performance of the F100 Steering Box and will preserve the original assembly. I have both the F100 and the later described mechanisms in my cars and can tell very little difference in the ease of steering. What I do notice is when turning a corner the F100 will return the steering wheel to straight forward like a modern car.
 
let me rephrase that, traditional as in the 50's period correct hot rods.
I am not going for the all original...i want the f100 juice brakes...not the mechanical model a brakes. i want the f100 steering box, not the original. i want the later flat AV8 motor...not the stock 4 banger.
And no, im not saying the all original cars arnt cool...but its just not what im going for.
 
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And, im asking if anyone can help me find info about the conversion....NOT SUGGEST OTHER IDEAs...im pretty set on how i want to build my car.
 
The Tradel book says this; cut the flange off an empty A steering box as close as you can get to the outside and still have some of the gussets. Cut the flange off an empty F100 gear box, about one inch from the gearbox. Grind a bevel on both parts. Sub assemble the gear box and install in the car with the body on to clock the two castings. Tack weld in two places. This is not cast iron, its cast steel, and it welds really nice with a home MIG. Put the gearbox on the bench, and really lay some heat in for about an inch, then imediatly do the oposite side. Walk away for an hour. When you come back, if the shaft turns easily, weld two more places. When mine was done and assembled, I filled it with straight STP and it never leaked, even with no seal on the shaft. The reason you want to shorten the gearbox is for clearance to install the V8. The shaft just sticks out an inch further, so what?
 
modelaonly.com said:
thats one of my conversions ,i make that end plate - adpt. no leaks with that plate!
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Dave, yeah i actually just bought some parts from you, thanks again for the great deal.
And i wouldve loved to purchased your f100 steering conversion, but its quite out of my price range...especially during the holidays.

i have an f1 steering box and shaft and my original model a column/box and thought il save money doing the conversion myself...but really cant find much info online.

do you sell the end plate separately? and does it still require the worm gear to be bored out?
 
No offense but this is a site about the RESTORATION and ORIGINAL side of model A's. Not about Hot Rods or period correct jalopies. Maybe I am wrong, but You would be better served on the Hamb. I'm there under the same handle and I am building something similar. I do not post about it here as I think it is rude and disrespectful of the Senior(not older, more experienced;)) members. good luck with the build, I always enjoy seeing a true 90% ford content hot rod.....and buy the Bishop/Tardel book. It will explain everything. Vern also has a little book on steering that you might find helpful.

Matt

Edit: I'm not trying to say you can't or shouldn't post here. just that you might be better served else where. I for one am very interested in your build. But I don't want to cross the lines of what this site is geared for. Sorry if it came across as policing your post. It was just my opinion. Merry Christmas and good luck with the project.
 
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