Power Steering Gear

My old power steering gear was leaking and I was unable to get it apart to replace the likely bad seal. I bought a refurbished constant ratio steering gear to install. I'm not sure on the specs for the stock one (16:1 maybe) and I don't remember the specs for the new one (12:1 maybe), but the difference is huge. And it should be if my guess on the ratios is right, it would be 4 turns of the steering wheel lock to lock for the stock box and less than 3.5 turns lock to lock for the quick ratio box. I was not sure about the purchase because the quick ratio box might take away from the 'wagon feel' while driving. Since I was replacing it with something, I figured I might as well go for the sports car steering. I've driven it several times with the new box and the driving experience is improved and more intense. Just a little steering input makes the car move and quick. This is great for high speed driving but does make holding the car straight a little more work. Overall, it's pretty fun.

Here's an article describing quick ratio boxes:

Quick Ratio Steering Boxes



I had the old lines from the pump to the gear, but cut them to get the gear out the first time. I never did find the right replacement lines. The ones the had at Napa for the Malibu were totally different. I went through several other applications looking for some that were close. I can't remember which ones I chose, but they routed quite differently. I seemed to work though.

I still need to replace the rag joint. That'll probably be easier before the engine and headers get in the way.