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Power steering

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buicfrank

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Has anyone installed power steering in a Nash Metropolitan? And how did you do it? Stock 59 no modifications except alternator. Thank Frank
 
Interesting question - not many here have Mets so we are likely as intrigued as you.

I did a bit of googling and it seems like the steering boxes wear out - can it be refurbed or swapped to rack & pinion? (they aren't that big a car that I would think they would need Power steering - but what do I know :) )

I follow a couple of forums located in the UK and there, electric power steering seems to be a very common swap.

Also this site came up > Street Rod Engineering - Custom Street Rod Suspension Kits < they do front end Mustang II upgrades for more power but likely would have some advice to offer if not the parts you need.

It looks like a Prius steering rack is a common swap (Prius - go figure)

> Electric Power Steering Increases Horsepower and Saves Fuel <

Please keep us posted - sounds fascinating! Oh and if you have a minute we'd love to see pictures.

:cheers:
 
Yes, pictures please. Mets are really interesting cars and we see so few of them.
 
We had 2 of them for the boys when they were in high school. The ones we had were in very nice shape and didn't seem hard to steer at all. Sold the pair of them when the boys graduated, nice little cars. (y)
 
Wife is short. Got a smaller wheel installed. Helped but still hard. I was thinking of power steering before I rebuild the steering. With the engine installed rebuilding the steering will be more difficult. Frank
 
Might try a steering column out of a small KIA that has electric steering assist. Mount unseen under dash and wire to ignition. Friend of mine is working this on a 56 Chevy 6 cyl. Unit used is $150 rather than $2K bought.
 
Had a Met and it does not need power
 
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These old steering boxes generally could be cleaned and topped with fresh fluid. The older cars had big steering wheels to overcome the turns. Always keep car moving while turning and parking. I, personally, would want to feel the steering before and final guidance. If all the suspension is loose or renewed, most these low horsepower cars are not real tight. Might try to contact a local club mechanic and have them feel it out.
 
Another club forum, ask questions.
 
If it were me I would ask join the crowd and ask a question
 
I am curious as to why you need power steering they drove just fine without power once you start playing with conversions you do open one large can of maggots I am putting together a prefect and I have no intentions of adding anything besides the engine would not be able to supply enough power to run a pump
 
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