SpeedDirect Steeroids
When purchased with the available steering column, SpeedDirect's Steeroids rack-and-pinion steering conversion for '65-'70 Mustangs is a true bolt-on, requiring no permanent modifications to the vehicle for enhanced steering feel, lighter weight, and the elimination of leaks. The Steeroids rack-and-pinion kits include a remanufactured quick-ratio GM Saginaw rack that yields approximately 2.5 turns lock-to-lock with power steering or 2.9 turns with the manual unit. Supplied adaptor brackets bolt to the frame in the same holes as the factory steering. A slight modification is required if using a stock steering column.
The Steeroids system is the only vintage Mustang rack-and-pinion that includes adjustable tie-rod ends to eliminate bumpsteer, whether the vehicle is lowered or not. The kit includes all the components and hardware necessary to completely replace the stock steering system. Available as manual or power systems, the power racks come with hoses that fit the factory pump. The manual system (higher steering effort but less weight) is permanently lubricated, so there is no maintenance.
The Steeroids kit installs with basic hand tools in approximately 3-5 hours. Prices start at under $1,200 for systems without a steering column.
Unisteer Performance Products
A division of Maval Manufacturing, Unisteer is a manufacturer of steering systems and components for street rods and classic cars, plus they offer steering for custom-built vehicles. For Mustangs, Unisteer offers 15 bolt-on kits specifically for '65-'70 models, with variations for small-block and big-block cars, chrome finishes, and model years, including a specific kit for early '67 Mustangs. Unisteer's custom steering gear is engineered to match the stock suspension while also eliminating bump steer. Each kit comes with everything needed for installation on Mustangs with the factory steering column.
Most Unisteer rack-and-pinion kits for vintage Mustangs are priced under $1,600.
Randall's Rack and Pinion specializes in '65-'70 Mustang power rack-and-pinion conversions. The kits are supplied with the rack unit mounted to Randall's own one-piece crossmember, which strengthens the front end due to its -inch steel construction compared to the original tubular crossmember. It also manages the side-to-side motion of the rack and provides maximum clearance for short- or long-tube headers. The rack and crossmember mount to the frame at seven points using grade 8 bolts. The rack provides three turns lock-to-lock.
A recent upgrade to the Randall's rack-and-pinion allows the use of the factory tie-rods, which simplifies the bolt-in installation.
Starting a $1,695, the Randall's system utilizes the original steering column and wheel, so parts are included to adapt the factory steering shaft to the rack. Lines are supplied to connect to either original power steering pumps or to Randall's available aluminum pumps with brackets and hoses for Ford engines.
Gateway Performance Suspension
The GPS Rack System from Gateway Classic Mustang is designed to bolt up to the stock mounting locations without removing the factory lower crossmember. It works with the stock power steering pump, although GPS recommends stepping up to their race-inspired KRC pump system. GPS offers hose kits for both pumps.
The GPS rack systems come with a new steering column shaft kit to adapt to the rack-and-pinion. Also supplied are new upper and lower steering column bearings, inner tie-rod ends, and billet aluminum draglink with replaceable steel tapered tie-rod end inserts. A stabilizer system keeps the draglink level from lock-to-lock.
The $1,995 GPS rack-and-pinion works with both the factory steering or with the GPS coil-over strut front suspensions.
Unlike most of the other rack-and-pinion systems for vintage Mustangs, Fatman Fabrication's rack comes as part of a complete strut independent front suspension. Fatman's Brent Vandervort feels that the best way to obtain modern handling and steering is to upgrade to a strut-type suspension. Based on '94-'04 Mustang parts, the Fatman suspension eliminates factory bump steer and provides adjustable ride height.
The Fatman rack-and-pinion...
The Fatman rack-and-pinion comes as part of a complete independent front suspension system that includes coilover struts and the rack, which aids both steering and handling.
A recent upgrade to the Fatman kit includes the use of a newer OEM Ford rack-and-pinion with larger tie rods along with a different U-joint connection that allows more room for headers. That rear-steer power rack also allows the use of standard oil pans.
Fatman offers front strut IRS systems for '65-'66 and '67-'73 Mustangs. Prices start at $1,995, with available options like tilt steering, power brakes, and Shockwave Airstruts.