1972 MC 350/Auto - Power Steering Pump Replacement

[B-Man]

Morning guys and gals!

I pulled my Monte Carlo out for a short drive yesterday (not quite the season yet) and was quickly reminded that the Power Steering Pump seems to be a bit intermittent, or sticky.  I now recall that I mentioned this in my "Suspension Upgrade" post a long time ago and never did anything about it.

I was making a turn at a neighborhood stop sign.  The 'power' in the steering went to near zero and I had to put quite a bit of load to complete the turn.  In fact, it seemed like more load than should have been required if there was zero power steering, but that might be my imagination.

And while in the middle of putting all of that load on the steering wheel, the 'power' returned, which then led me to rip over to the curb of the road.  This could be a little scary of course depending on the circumstance.  So I've decided that steering is important to get right!!

If I'm going to go through the hassle, is there anything to watch out for or consider when replacing the pump?

• Any 'might as wells'?
• New hoses?
• Dont forget to ...?
• Taking off the [     ] is a pain in the butt!????

Also, I have to return my Saddle door panel carpets to The Parts Place, so I have a credit with them.  Is the pump they offer good enough for a general replacement?

https://www.thepartsplaceinc.com/product/1972/1972-chevrolet-monte-carlo-power-steering-pump-reservoir-big-block-small-block-7801/54639

 

1972 MC 350/Auto - Suspension Upgrade

 

[cny first gen 71]

Replacing the pump is not that bad, check the hoses real good for ANY seepage replace as needed. There actually 2 different style pumps available either will work, one has a triangle design body the other has a bit of a neck on it. I tried to rebuild my pump but the body was warped and still leaked so I replaced it. Mine is a sb, bb may be a bit different. 

[B-Man]

@cny first gen 71, ok thanks for the input.  In all my years of working on cars, can you believe that I've never actually replaced a power steering pump or hoses, that I recall?!?!?  It's like traveling to 49 of the 50 states, haha.  Just have to get that last one in.

The Parts Place offers a couple of hoses.  I guess I might put them in the 'might as well' category.  Most of the rubber on my Monte Carlos seems to have aged like milk!  Couldn't hurt to throw new ones in while I'm digging in to that mess.

https://www.thepartsplaceinc.com/product/1972/1972-chevrolet-monte-carlo-high-pressure-power-steering-line/54638

https://www.thepartsplaceinc.com/product/1972/1972-chevrolet-monte-carlo-oe-style-power-steering-return-line-kit-with-pinch-clamp/80888

 

[B-Man]

I'm back on this topic, and might go ahead and address it this summer.  Even though I've promised myself I wont start any more projects on the Monte Carlo until winter, since it's now my daily driver :). But ... quality steering is important, and it still seems to 'catch' every now and then.

The Parts Place offers a new pump with no core charge for $149.  I may go that route.  And OReillys offers a 'MasterPro' brand for $79 (+$15 core) - a little cheaper of course, but is it the right part and worth it ... always a question.

And from this forum it sounds like a 1998 Jeep Cherokee steering box is the way to go in order to make the steering a little tighter.  Again OReillys has them for $177 (+$40 core).  

There's mention of a 'kit' from Lee Power Steering, but I dont really understand what that kit does.  Can anyone clarify?

https://leepowersteering.com/collections/seat-kit/products/saginaw-power-steering-gearbox-seat-kit-after-1980-sae-conversion

I only plan to replace the hoses as needed.  If needed, I will likely just order them through OReilly.

[cny first gen 71]

I think if you get the jeep box you'll have to get hoses made because the fittings are different.  I would try and get new as opposed to rebuild if it was me.

[Robnhood]

I have been wanting to go this way

However the jeep option sounds good with new hoses.

[Scott S.]

Craig, just keep in mind that when you switch to the "Jeep" steering box and hoses, which are metric and use a different seal, that you will probably have to get the adapters to fit the pump. Earl's and Russel both make these fittings. I believe that Summit carries them as well.

 

[B-Man]

13 minutes ago, Scott S. said:

Craig, just keep in mind that when you switch to the "Jeep" steering box and hoses, which are metric and use a different seal, that you will probably have to get the adapters to fit the pump. Earl's and Russel both make these fittings. I believe that Summit carries them as well.

 

Maybe that explains the reference to the Lee Power Steering "kit" ????

https://leepowersteering.com/collections/seat-kit/products/saginaw-power-steering-gearbox-seat-kit-after-1980-sae-conversion

[Leghome]

Could always check with CarHex he usually has some new rebuilt boxes. I think his name is Hector Carrillo out in California. From what I have a real straight shooter

[cny first gen 71]

23 minutes ago, Leghome said:

Could always check with CarHex he usually has some new rebuilt boxes. I think his name is Hector Carrillo out in California. From what I have a real straight shooter

Yes Hector is a good guy to deal with. I've bought a couple things from him before. And yes Larry you got his name correct. 

[B-Man]

 

We're accumulating some good info here boys and girls!!  I had never heard of CarHex / Hector before.  It sounds like he is a great resource for sure.

In general I'm personally trying to balance function, quality and cost.  So I will probable go the junkyard or OReilly route as best as I can.  If it becomes yet another lesson learned, then that's on me :).

I will report back! 

[Robnhood]

On 5/12/2025 at 1:46 PM, Scott S. said:

Craig, just keep in mind that when you switch to the "Jeep" steering box and hoses, which are metric and use a different seal, that you will probably have to get the adapters to fit the pump. Earl's and Russel both make these fittings. I believe that Summit carries them as well.

 

Thanks for the reminder. 

[jft69z]

I recently used a Lares 972 steering box in a job I just completed. It is a quick ratio, with IROC Camaro internals. It used standard fittings, no adapters required, and they also have a rag joint assembly that worked fine as well (part number 201). 

In use, it is a real nice unit, has a bit of higher 'effort' than the stock, over assisted boxes, but not too high like manual steering. Price is reasonable at around $279-295, depending where you get it (Summit, RockAuto, etc). You can get a brand new one #10972 without a core charge as well. I called them up directly, spoke with a very helpful gentleman at the time and he said the 972 box would work just fine, FWIW. 

 

https://www.larescorp.com/Part/972

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/lsc-972

https://www.rockauto.com/en/parts/lares,972,steering+gear,7416

 

My current Monte came with a 'Lee Mfg' box in it, which is also a quick ratio, high effort box, but typically costs a lot more money. I also sent one out to them last year for a 69 Z/28 job to be redone with quick ratio/high effort. Very nice unit, but 3 times the cost of the Lares unit.

Just something to consider at a very reasonable cost, that comes with a warranty, and tested in actual car recently. I wouldn't think twice about getting another one in the future, if needed.

Here's the coupling below. Just a note, I tend to re-use the factory bolts that hold the coupling to the intermediate shaft, as they're the correct sizes. The originals are 2 different sizes, where the aftermarket ones are usually the same size.

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/lsc-201?srsltid=AfmBOoo6xFZdd8UVXGQWQZ-ixJ3uk_waGFTZz9WlXT3TbNljBQUEHpXQ5Wo

[Robnhood]

On 5/14/2025 at 10:37 PM, jft69z said:

I recently used a Lares 972 steering box in a job I just completed. It is a quick ratio, with IROC Camaro internals. It used standard fittings, no adapters required, and they also have a rag joint assembly that worked fine as well (part number 201). 

In use, it is a real nice unit, has a bit of higher 'effort' than the stock, over assisted boxes, but not too high like manual steering. Price is reasonable at around $279-295, depending where you get it (Summit, RockAuto, etc). You can get a brand new one #10972 without a core charge as well. I called them up directly, spoke with a very helpful gentleman at the time and he said the 972 box would work just fine, FWIW. 

 

https://www.larescorp.com/Part/972

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/lsc-972

https://www.rockauto.com/en/parts/lares,972,steering+gear,7416

 

My current Monte came with a 'Lee Mfg' box in it, which is also a quick ratio, high effort box, but typically costs a lot more money. I also sent one out to them last year for a 69 Z/28 job to be redone with quick ratio/high effort. Very nice unit, but 3 times the cost of the Lares unit.

Just something to consider at a very reasonable cost, that comes with a warranty, and tested in actual car recently. I wouldn't think twice about getting another one in the future, if needed.

Here's the coupling below. Just a note, I tend to re-use the factory bolts that hold the coupling to the intermediate shaft, as they're the correct sizes. The originals are 2 different sizes, where the aftermarket ones are usually the same size.

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/lsc-201?srsltid=AfmBOoo6xFZdd8UVXGQWQZ-ixJ3uk_waGFTZz9WlXT3TbNljBQUEHpXQ5Wo

Just out of curiousity, does anyone know what the lock to lock is for the lares 972 steering box?

[Blackhawk]

I remember seeing a table on here or Team Chevelle with a list of steering boxes, their ratio, and travel angle. This is pretty close to what I remember: https://www.hotrod.com/articles/ccrp-0901-gm-steering-box-upgrade

 

Here are the Jeep specs, it shows one direction for the sweep compared to the table above, so 43* 45' is the same as 87* total travel.

1992-98 Grand Cherokee Fast Ratio Power Steering Gears
YEAR         CODE  ORIGINAL APPLICATION  GEARRATIO  EFFORT  T-BAR SIZE  TRAVEL
1992.5-94 AL       Jeep Grand Cherokee       12.7:1            20-26      0.195 Dia      43deg 45min
1995         JH        Jeep Grand Cherokee       12.7:1            20-26      0.195 Dia      43deg 45min
1996         KD       Jeep Grand Cherokee       12.7:1             20-26      0.195 Dia     43deg 45min
1997-98   WK      Jeep Grand Cherokee        12.7:1            20-26      0.195 Dia     43deg 45min

[jft69z]

1 hour ago, Robnhood said:

Just out of curiousity, does anyone know what the lock to lock is for the lares 972 steering box?

I'll ask John P. to check it, it's installed in his car.

[Robnhood]

Additional information, thank you google ai.

The number of steering wheel turns from lock to lock for a 1970 Monte Carlo depends on whether it had manual or power steering and if a stock or upgraded steering box is installed.

Power Steering:
Stock power steering boxes had a variable ratio and typically resulted in about 3.3 turns lock-to-lock.
Some sources indicate 3 to 3.5 turns for a Monte Carlo with power steering.
Some aftermarket or quick ratio power steering boxes can reduce the turns to as low as 2.5 or 3.25 turns lock-to-lock, depending on the ratio.

Manual Steering:
For manual steering, a standard ratio gearbox could be around 4 turns lock-to-lock.
Manual steering options also existed with quicker ratios like 16:1, resulting in fewer turns lock-to-lock. 
It's important to note that steering boxes can be replaced with different ratios, so the actual number of turns might vary depending on the car's current setup. 

[Robnhood]

Additional information, thank you google ai.

A lower steering gear ratio is closer to the ratio found in a rack and pinion steering system. Lower ratios mean less steering wheel input is required to achieve the same amount of wheel movement, resulting in a more responsive and agile feel, which is characteristic of rack and pinion systems. 

Here's why:
Rack and pinion steering:
This system generally uses a low steering ratio (e.g., 12:1 to 16:1) because it provides a direct and responsive feel. 

Steering gear ratios:
Higher ratios: (e.g., 20:1) mean more steering wheel rotations are needed to turn the wheels a certain amount. This results in a slower, more stable steering feel, often found in older or larger vehicles. 

Lower ratios: (e.g., 12:1) require less steering wheel input for the same wheel movement, making the steering feel quicker and more responsive. 
Rack and pinion systems and low ratios:
Rack and pinion systems are designed to provide a direct connection between the steering wheel and the wheels, and this is often achieved with a lower steering ratio. 

In essence, a lower steering gear ratio more closely mimics the feel and responsiveness of a rack and pinion steering system, making it feel more direct and agile. 

[Robnhood]

A lower steering ratio is generally preferred for better responsiveness and quicker steering, while a higher steering ratio is favored for increased stability and easier steering, particularly at higher speeds. The "best" ratio depends on the specific vehicle, its intended use, and the driver's preferences. 
Here's a more detailed breakdown: 

Lower Steering Ratio (e.g., 12:1): 
Pros: 
More responsive steering: A smaller change in steering wheel angle translates to a larger change in wheel angle, resulting in quicker turns. 
Better for performance driving: Lower ratios are often preferred in racing or sporty driving where quick, precise steering inputs are needed. 
Good for tight corners and maneuvers: Makes it easier to navigate sharp turns and tight spaces. 
Cons: 
Can feel twitchy or unstable at high speeds: Small steering inputs can lead to large changes in direction, requiring more concentration and potentially causing oversteering. 
Can be more tiring to drive at high speeds: The steering wheel may need to be turned more frequently, leading to driver fatigue. 
Higher steering effort: May require more physical effort to turn the wheel, especially without power steering. 

Higher Steering Ratio (e.g., 16:1): 
Pros: 
More stable and predictable handling: A larger change in steering wheel angle is needed to turn the wheels, making the car feel more stable at higher speeds. 
Easier to control at high speeds: Reduces the sensitivity of the steering, making it easier to maintain a straight line and avoid oversteering. 
Less tiring to drive at high speeds: The steering wheel doesn't need to be turned as often, reducing driver fatigue. 
Cons: 
Slower steering response: It takes more turns of the steering wheel to achieve the same wheel angle, resulting in a less responsive feel. 
Can feel sluggish or less engaging: The steering may feel less precise and less connected to the car. 
May require more effort for parking or low-speed maneuvers: Turning the wheel more times can be inconvenient in tight spaces. 
In essence, the ideal steering ratio is a balance between responsiveness and stability. Lower ratios offer quicker steering for performance, while higher ratios prioritize stability and ease of driving, particularly at higher speeds. 

Factors to consider when choosing a steering ratio:

Vehicle type:
Sports cars might benefit from a lower ratio, while larger vehicles or those intended for long-distance driving may prefer a higher ratio. 

Intended use:
Racing or performance driving often favors lower ratios, while daily driving or long-distance cruising may be better suited to higher ratios. 

Driver preference:
Some drivers simply prefer the feel of a more responsive or more stable steering system. 

[Blackhawk]

Keep in mind that the ratio and number of turns lock to lock are only part of the equation. You'll get less turns lock to lock if the steering box has internal stops. If you run the 80's Camaro box with 17* less travel you'll have less turns but your turning radius in the car is going to get worse.

[Robnhood]

1 hour ago, Blackhawk said:

Keep in mind that the ratio and number of turns lock to lock are only part of the equation. You'll get less turns lock to lock if the steering box has internal stops. If you run the 80's Camaro box with 17* less travel you'll have less turns but your turning radius in the car is going to get worse.

This is what I am looking at:  https://redheadsteeringgears.com/18501QW

The ratio is 12.7:1

"No stops. We use a true quick worm from a IROC Z28 Camaro. When done properly your turning radius stays the same as the factory gear box, it’s just faster reacting and more responsive. You get full lock to full lock in 2.5 turns instead of the factory 3.25."

[jft69z]

John got back to me, for the Lares box, it's 2.5 turns lock to lock. It says it has the IROC internals too (and comes with the nut & washer, that the 'redhead' doesn't, lol).

[Robnhood]

7 minutes ago, jft69z said:

John got back to me, for the Lares box, it's 2.5 turns lock to lock. It says it has the IROC internals too (and comes with the nut & washer, that the 'redhead' doesn't, lol).

Seems like the only difference would be the core charge, and refund.

[jft69z]

Just now, Robnhood said:

Seems like the only difference would be the core charge, and refund.

You could get a brand new box too, without core charge. When I called Lares directly, the gentleman said the reman was good.

[Scott S.]

I like the mid '90's Grand Cherokee steering box.... Other than the different threads for the hoses, it was an easy install.