1964 Catalina quick ratio power steering conversion.

[mkeafer]

Hello.
I am the proud owner of a 1964 Catalina with power steering. It steers faily well but I have been told that I can make a big difference in the steering with a quick ratio box. And further that one from a Jeep Wagoneer would be the best. Does anyone know how to determine which unit I should use, what year, and if I need to use the pump to go with it?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Mike.

[Pitt64]

I installed the AGR 12 to 1 unit in my 64 Bonneville.
I first thought the box was bad becouse I didn't follow the bleeding instructions to the letter.
I removed the pittman arm and reblead it, turning the steering wheel lock to lock over 200 times!
It steers like a sportscar now.
I also recomend getting you car realigned after the install and have them set the caster as far postive as you can get.

[clh11380]

I have 1963 catalina w/pwr.steering. Ichecked on several different suppliers, but your best bet is to have a 1964 unit rebuilt using later model gearing. I went to a company named High Performance Steering, where he would supply a power steering box from a 1963 full size Pontiac and use gear for either 3 turn L to L or 2.5 turn L to L. I got a 3 Turn box and have been very happy with the unit. I felt that the 2.5 turn box, might introduce some over steer on that size car. This companyis located in Washington State, and cost was about $250 to $300, and no core needed. going this route eliminates the hassel of finding a steering box to fit and pump concerns. Remember that new bushings, ball joints, tie rods & ends, idler arm etc. may need replaced.