The Saginaw steering conversions for these vehicles is a proven advantage simply because they allow you to have better control of your vehicle both on and off the highway.  The problem with stock steering on these vehicles is excessive play or backlash.  In addition to offering a sound positive means of controlling your vehicle, it can be performed at a reasonable cost.  Additional advantages include exhaust clearance, engine positioning, and custom steering columns. 

 

Before you consider this conversion we recommend that you thoroughly read and understand the complete installation procedure.  Do not take shortcuts on steering installations.  We recommend that these conversions be installed by a qualified technician.  The control of your vehicle depends on your steering performance.  Failure of your steering system can result in severe damage and possible injury.

 

 

SAGINAW STEERING KITS:

Most Jeep vehicles had basically the same stock configuration.  It is simply a gear box at the base of the steering column which controls a drag link towards the front of the vehicle.  The bellcrank is mounted on the front crossmember or axle and uses a push-pull affect for steering.  Because there are many motions and joints on this system, excessive free play and backlash develops.

 

(Stock Illustration)	(Stock with long tie rod)

 

The Saginaw steering system requires the elimination of the stock gear box and bellcrank.  The new steering box is mounted on the inside of the left front frame rail, just behind the bumper.  Although this sounds simple, there are several things that must be considered before the installation can be completed.  Such things include:  

 

 

On engine conversions that are retaining the original steering box location, you will be locating the engine position as close as possible to the original steering box.  When eliminating the original steering box, you will be able to offset the new engine 1” towards the driver’s side in order to allow for additional front driveshaft and starter motor clearance.  In 1971, Jeep changed their steering design to almost the exact same configuration as the kit that we offer.  The difference between the original Jeep installation and our installation is mainly in the design of the mounting bracket for the steering box.  Jeep also used a rag joint coupler between the steering box and driveshaft.

(Saginaw Steering Installation)

We offer a couple conversion kits.  These kits are either power or manual steering conversions, and use either a Flaming River or Borgeson yoke design.  None of these kits supply the steering box (manual or power), or steering pump and hoses (power applications).  To help  identify the kit necessary for your conversion, please consider the following information.  Note:  Full steering kits should not be ordered when converting Jeep Pickups & Wagons, since special tie rods will be required.