Custom power steering lines for 68

[jcode68]

My power steering hoses are too close for comfort to the headers and want to run them under the engine mounts. I may be able to use the stock hoses for this, but was thinking about making custom hose to get the best fit. Does anyone know what fittings I would use to attach to the PS pump as well as to the control valve? Are they AN fittings or something special that I need to get from a hydraulic supply house? Also, anyone dealt with this issue that has suggestions/pics to post would be appreciated.

 

[monk302]

If you go to a hydraulic store they should be able to put together something for you. I know a couple of guys around me who have gotten their PS hoses made custom locally at one particular shop. Anyway, I believe the hose and fittings are similar to -AN but much higher rated. I believe a saw a section in RUSSELL catalog on PS hoses.

 

[Stangboy67]

As previously suggested, if you go to a hydraulic hose supply shop they will fix you up. I ran into the same problem with my headers and had the hose lengthened. However you route it, make sure you have enough slack (at full turn to the left I believe) to not stress the metal portion of the hose that mounts to the control valve. Otherwise, after repeated minor bending you end up with a crack in the curved portion and fluid squirt everwhere. Been there done that.

When I installed a 5.0 with all the late model PS pump, I had the shop mate a late model hose (for the pump) to an early model hose (for the control valve). Has worked great for years.

 

[jcode68]

Thanks for the replies. I was thinking about checking with a local hose shop, but I would still need the specs for the fittings in order for them to make the hose. I saw the stuff Russel has and figured I would go that route and make them myself, but again need to know what size fittings. Worst case, I guess I will just remove the hose and bring it to a shop. Anyone got some pics on how you routed and secured your lines?

 

[FORCED2DV8]

I made several from braided line with AN fittings. Works great and no leaks,
Like others said a local hydraulic sullpy shop can make you some also...I have these for the auto trans...since higher pressure..

 

[jcode68]

I made several from braided line with AN fittings. Works great and no leaks,
Like others said a local hydraulic sullpy shop can make you some also...I have these for the auto trans...since higher pressure..

This is what I want to do also. What was the size of the AN fittings?

 

[FORCED2DV8]

I took my pump down to the local race shop and found the correct fittings,
I think I used 3/8" braided line, with 90 degree elbows on one end, Theres a AN fitting that adapts it from yourpower steering box to the regular 3/8" AN fitting.