Power Steering Conversions

The Power Steering Box that we are using is the Saginaw unit and cast iron bracket found on the 1974-1978 Dodge 4x4 pick-ups. Another box that works is the 1983-1991 Chevy-GMC van that came with a gasoline engine either 1/2 or 3/4 ton.

You can obtain these boxes from your local salvage yard, or purchase from my stock of rebuilt steering boxes from LARES CORP.

Be aware that the older Dodge box uses standard inverted flare fittings. The GM application box uses ( O-ring bump fittings ) which may require adapters to convert to the inverted flares.

The Saginaw box and bracket will bolt right up to the side of the frame in about the same position as the original manual box. Two holes will have to be drilled and a small angle iron bracket will have to be welded to the top of the frame to catch the upper hole of the bracket.

The M-37 pitman arm will usually connect with no problems to the Saginaw unit. The original steering column will be cut above the old steering box and the outer tube will be cut up inside the firewall and a bearing that I provide is installed on the firewall to support the inner steering shaft. Some minor cuts will have to be made to the inner fender skirt to accommodate the steering hoses.

There will be an extra $15.00 charge for custom boring if you elect to use the original steering column.

The other alternative that our company now provides, if you wish to completely modify your M-37, is the addition of a modern Flaming River steering column. These are especially nice if you wish to convert to 12v, and have turn signals, 4 way flashers, and a tilt steering wheel. They come complete with a GM style wiring harness. Be aware that the old original steering wheel will not fit. You will have to convert over to a more modern 3/4 in - 36 spine steering wheel common to GM applications.