Steering Systems - Steering Clear

One of the most basic, yet crucial systems on our replica and component cars is the steering system. Everything from full custom systems to direct transplants has been used, depending on the vehicle type and complexity of the car. Without a doubt, this is one of the major headaches and challenges for a kit car manufacturer to solve. For most manufacturers, the easiest and proven path has been to base the steering system on an existing design that also fits within the vehicle's body and structure.

For most cars, a few designs have become very popular. In the Street Rods, the Mustang II/Pinto system is the most popular-as it is compact, simple, has modern brakes, and a wide-enough track width to fit most bodies. In the Cobra replica arena, two different steering systems are prevalent. Almost exclusively, most manufacturers used the original Cobra/MGB steering system and geometry until the introduction of the Mustang II component-based IFS and steering systems came into the forefront. The MGB system is very light, has good geometry, and is easy to adapt. With the advent of the Mustang component kits, most notably the Factory Five cars, the Mustang's suspension and steering geometry was kept along with many of the components. One of the biggest challenges was replacing the McPherson strut with an upper control arm and connecting hardware to create an upper ball joint pivot. Once all was worked out, the results have spoken for themselves. Only with the most exotic cars will you find full custom steering and suspension systems with more of a racing slant.

Over the next few pages, we'll outline the basic groups of parts available, plus some extra mods for those who need more performance. As with other features we have presented to our readers, we'll provide more of an overview so you can see what is available. From there you can do the needed research to select the specific components that you believe will work best for you.

Obviously, the heart of the system is the steering rack itself. Almost all replica and component cars use the modern rack-and-pinion steering setup. As described before, most manufacturers have adapted the existing suspension systems from another vehicle. Usually it is from a car that many other parts are also being donated from to complete the build. On a base level build either the existing steering rack can be used from the donor, or one can be purchased outright. Either manual steer or power assist can be used. In most cases this will deliver trouble-free steering for the life of the vehicle.

For those who demand either higher quality components, or a higher level of performance, many manufacturers offer a specially manufactured steering rack. One of the most popular and well-known is Flaming River. They manufacture steering racks for almost every application, both manual and power assist. The construction features CNC machining, premium quality materials, and a higher quality finish. For more info on the applications, check out the Flaming River Web site and use the instructions and equipment list of your vehicle as a guide.

Flaming River also offers many other parts of the steering system. Another major component is the steering column. Again, whether you are building a street rod, roadster, or other vehicle, along with transmission choice, dash design, and other factors will then determine if you need a column-and then what type. Most of the Flaming River columns are based on existing designs, so they can easily integrate into a component car, but, like the racks, feature superior construction, finish, and quality. Again, many types and variants are offered, so once you know your specific application the correct column can be chosen. In addition, many of the peripheral parts are also available, including: universal joints, steering shafts, dash mounts, floor mounts, hoses, power steering pumps and reservoirs, etc.-all from one company.

For those who demand more performance and greater steering response and accuracy, even more can be done with the steering. Kits are available to reposition the steering rack to achieve optimal steering geometry. Bumpsteer kits are there to properly position the steering arms so that the car stays straight. If using power steering, many options are available, including coolers, fluids, pumps, and more.

Take a look at what we found, consult with the kit's manufacturer, consult friends and forums. The more education you have, the better off you'll be when selecting parts for this most critical system on your vehicle. A properly selected system will result in more smiles as the miles pass, instead of white knuckles after hanging on for dear life.