1. First remove the old steering...
1. First remove the old steering linkage. Here, technician Derek Torres begins removal of the vintage Bendix power-steering system, beginning at the control valve. The control valve is tied to the steering gear via the Pitman arm.
2. Derek disconnects the...
2. Derek disconnects the rag joint from the steering gear as shown. Once the rag joint is disconnected, remove the three steering-gear retaining bolts using a 1/2-inch drive-socket wrench with an 11/16-inch socket. For the rag joint, use a 9/16-inch box-end wrench.
3. Derek knocks out the tie-rod...
3. Derek knocks out the tie-rod ends, disconnecting them from each spindle. Don't toss the outer tie-rod ends, as you'll need them. It's a good idea to replace them, especially if they're worn.
4. Two bolts retain the idler...
4. Two bolts retain the idler arm, which ties the steering linkage to the righthand framerail. Then Derek drops the entire steering linkage.
5. To begin the installation...
5. To begin the installation of the Randall's rack, Derek wrestles the rack into place to start the bolts. The Randall's power rack replaces the factory tubular crossmember Ford originally used. It bolts into the crossmember bolt holes with Grade 8 fasteners.
6. Each side bracket ties...
6. Each side bracket ties the rack to the idler-arm and steering-gear locations. Grade 8 bolts provided by Randall's make this a secure installation. Take extra care not to over-torque these bolts.
7. Because the Randall's...
7. Because the Randall's rack replaces the Mustang's factory crossmember, it bolts where the crossmember originally fastened to provide strength and support.
8. Steering tie-rods provided...
8. Steering tie-rods provided by Randall's screw onto the rack as shown. Derek has a special tool for this purpose, however, you can use a large Crescent or open-end metric wrench.
'65-'67 Solid-Shaft Steering Columns
When you're doing a tilt-away or '68-up collapsible steering column, a Randall's conversion is straightforward. For '65-'67 solid-shaft columns, this is a test of fabrication skills. Randall's suggests cutting the steering column as shown to take 3 inches off the tube. The steering shaft has to be cut and machined into a double-D shape to fit to the steering coupling. This mandates a visit to a machine shop. The steering column tube should be 28 3/8 inches from the collar at the steering wheel to the tube end. The accompanying images should give you some idea of what's involved. Detailed instructions come with the Randall's Rack and Pinion system.