DOES THE HDK SUSPENSION K-MEMBER HANDLE BETTER THAN A T-BAR SUSPENSION?

Super-Cuda said

To add to the information being discussed , here's the specs on the rack used by RMS.


https://www.flamingriver.com/pub/media/wysiwyg/pdfs/power_rack_and_pinion_specs.pdf



This from Borgeson's site.

Upgrade Your Mopar with Modern Quick Ratio Steering​

Transform your classic Mopar’s handling with Borgeson's advanced quick-ratio power steering conversion box, designed specifically for 1962-1982 Mopar models. Engineered with a responsive 14:1 steering ratio and just 3.5 turns lock-to-lock, this upgrade delivers precise control, enhanced responsiveness, and modern driving feel. Borgeson’s power steering box directly bolts to your original K-frame, conveniently utilizing the stock pitman arm for seamless installation. Benefit from increased exhaust clearance, effortless steering input, and a substantial 10-pound weight reduction compared to factory equipment. Available with comprehensive installation components—including pump kits, steering couplers, and adapter fittings—Borgeson's Mopar steering solutions ensure straightforward installation and lasting reliability. Discover improved comfort, agility, and performance—upgrade your Mopar’s steering today with Borgeson's precision-engineered power steering conversion.

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I'm a bit curious on the math on that. The factory boxes that were 16:1 are advertised at ~3.5 turns lock to lock. So, all things being equal, a 14:1 ratio should be more like 3 turns lock to lock.

As for the MII racks, I've seen them advertised at 2.7 turns lock to lock like the ones you posted, but also all the way up to 5 turns lock to lock for some of the manual MII racks (with 3.3 (15:1) and 4 also in there depending on manufacturer). So it would really depend on which rack was being used. 2.7 lock to lock would be roughly 12:1. Maybe 13:1?

The Hotchkis Challenger was using a factory power steering box with a 1.5:1 quickener, so that would have been at 12:1.

A quick, rough measurement on my car shows a total steering travel at ~6", so steering angle shouldn't be too dramatically affected with those racks if the whole travel can actually be used when it's on the car. Back when I had stock LCA's and steering stops my wheel and tire set up did just kiss the frame rail, so I may be short a smidge on that travel. But when I looked into steering stop height across a bunch of various lower ball joints I found it was all over the map, so that distance might vary quite a bit because the steering stop height on the lower ball joints was not a tightly tolerance item. I looked into it because another member with the same tire size but more backspace on his wheels than I have said they were hitting the steering stops with room to spare to the frame, where mine were basically hitting the frame and stops at the same time.