[quote=“docblaster”]UPDATE:
Finally was able to get started on this conversion. Mind you this is coming from a mechanically inclined non-mechanic so it has been a learning process. I started by removing all the manual steering components and comparing them to what I had for the conversion. The first thing I noticed was the idler-arm was in pretty rough shape and it was a little bit different than the one on the car. The next thing was the tie rods were shot, both inner and outers so had to add that to the list. The hoses that came with the used kit that I bought were all dry rotted so more $ to spend.
Once I got the new tie rods and idler-arm I started to assemble it. everything was going great until I realized the arm from the steering box would not connect to the center link. Easy enough, I had another steering box with the correct arm on it, I could just change the arms right? After attempting to remove the arm for an hour I realized it would be easier to just switch out the boxes. I soon realized ford must have put the steering box in before the motor as there was no way this was coming out without unbolting the header or moving the motor out of the way. So, instead of trying to remove 4 impossible to reach bolts on the header, I removed two motor mount bolts, jacked up the motor and was FINALLY able to swap out the boxes.
So as of now, I have the bottom done, the power steering pump mounted and just have to hook up the hoses and put the belts on. I will probably be able to get that done tonight and will update the results in a day or two. This 3 hour project has been a several day endeavor but will be worth it when its done.
Thanks again for all the info guys, it has been a BIG help…
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Hopefully this doesn’t turn out like Gilligan’s Island 3 hour tour that lasted for years for you! Haha