Manual Steering...go for it? Leave power?

[Jon350]

So i have a 65 fastback, 302, with original type power steering (and a quick steer box). I am redoing the engine and engine compartment. I am at a point right now where i can easily take the power steering out all together and put a manual steering kit in. The primary reason for taking the power out is for simplicity. I am tired of the little leaks here and there, plus at speed the steering tends to feel lofty (unconnected).....Now my problem is this...I know I personaly would not mind the manual steering too much, however I am rebuilding the car to sell it.....anybody have insight as to whether they would buy a manual mustang vs. a older power steering mustang? (Also, the way the car is built for street/canyons/road race)

 

[Cannoball888]

I have a 65 FB with a 302 and power steering also. After installation of a Flaming River box, new drag link, idler arm, valve ball stud and sleeve, my steering is tight and not lofty even at high speeds. It also helps to have a 13.5" steering wheel for even more responsiveness.

 

[Pathfinder65]

Manual

 

[zookeeper]

What percentage of street vs. track do you anticipate? Be realistic when you answer that question and you'll be happier in the long run. If your answer is something like 95% street and 5% track (that would mean you'd see the track about 3-4 days per year) then you'd be better off staying power. If you plan on spending more days at the track than the street, maybe manual would be better, but remember most road race cars now use power steering. 15 years ago I converted my '65 fastback to manual because I though it was manly. My current '68 fastback kept the power and I'm not sorry. It does make you a smoother driver, since harsh movements with the wheel of a power steering car are not good. I wish my power steering was less sensitive, but I'm not about to ditch it.

 

[Jameshar1]

manual with a roller idler arm.

 

[Jester67]

I would keep the power if I where planning on selling it because I would cost a great deal of money for the buyer to convert it to power later but less to convert to manual. Power was a definite selling point for me on my car. Just my .02 cents

 

[danny clemens]

I'd rather have the power steering myself but if you decide to go manual you should keep all of the parts just in case you decide to change it back. That way if you sell it you can change it back or let the new owner have all of the parts to make it easier and cheaper on them.