Late model Cherokee / Viper power steering pump on A-body

[Mr Man]

Just wanted to share this info for those using the original Magnum serpentine setup on their cars... As you probably know, the stock Magnum truck PS pump sticks out a mile and hits the battery tray. I have heard about using the PS bracket from a van that brings the pump closer to the crankshaft, but I couldn't find one nearby.

I did, however, find a pump and bracket from a late 90's Grand Cherokee V8. It bolts right on and brings the pump 4" closer to the center of the car and 2" higher. I tapped the suction side of the pump so I can use a remote reservoir.

One note: The bracket is apparently known to crack based on what I've read in Jeep and Viper forums. A billet replacement is available, but I'm going to take my chances for now with an OEM replacement ($20).

Pics below show the layout difference between the Truck pump and Jeep/Viper setup. Hope this helps you guys who want to run a serpentine setup...

Scott

 

[Oklacarcollecto]

Looks good. How hard would it be to make the bracket out of steel to eliminate the cracking issue for a reasonable cost?

 

[Mr Man]

Looks good. How hard would it be to make the bracket out of steel to eliminate the cracking issue for a reasonable cost?

It wouldn't be too hard starting with 1/4" steel plate, then welding on additional 1/4" blocks to space out the pump mounting points. Here's a pic of the billet piece for sale online for approx $70.

 

[one mile]

This looks GREAT ! Would this setup work on a '65 Barracuda with the 273 V8 ? Thanks, Tim

 

[Idaho]

Thats good info. I've read that the pressure is different (higher?) on the newer pumps, and differing opinion about whether it matters. Perhaps it may blow a steering box seal or something. Any thoughts on that? I would like to keep the serp setup. Someone has also retrofitted an older pump.
I plan to relocate the battery so location may not be an issue.

 

[Mr Man]

This looks GREAT ! Would this setup work on a '65 Barracuda with the 273 V8 ? Thanks, Tim

The Magnum serpentine setup requires a specific timing cover and reverse rotation water pump. I'm not sure if all of that would bolt to a 273...

I'm putting the engine in tomorrow and will take pics of the clearance to the battery.

FYI - just learned that late 90's Jeep Wrangler 4-cyls had the same pump, but already set up for a remote reservoir. I would use that pump next time.

Scott

 

[Mr Man]

Thats good info. I've read that the pressure is different (higher?) on the newer pumps, and differing opinion about whether it matters. Perhaps it may blow a steering box seal or something. Any thoughts on that? I would like to keep the serp setup. Someone has also retrofitted an older pump.
I plan to relocate the battery so location may not be an issue.

Good point! I doubt that higher pressure would blow a seal, but it will make steering effort lighter or heavier. I should be able to tweak the control valve if this is a problem (I know it's possible on the Saginaw pumps but haven't seen anything about this specific pump).

Scott

 

[Mr Man]

Put the engine today. Lots of clearance to the battery. You may be able to use the stock Jeep Grand Cherokee reservoir but it would be pretty close.

 

[one mile]

Sweet ! ! !

 

[Idaho]

Cool. I like the idea of the serpentine system and an electric fan. Those wanting a more original look will of course think otherwise.

 

[blue73duster]

cool, looks like a beautiful car. love the color!!!!!!!!!!

 

[jos51700]

I tried that. The PS pressure hose was a b!tch so I said, "ta hell with it" (I actually said that) and ran the van bracket with my OE pump in a Dakota housing. EVERYTHING bolted up, including the hoses.

I have a Jeep pump for sale cheap if anyone wants it.

 

[Idaho]

I tried that. The PS pressure hose was a b!tch so I said, "ta hell with it" (I actually said that) and ran the van bracket with my OE pump in a Dakota housing. EVERYTHING bolted up, including the hoses.

I have a Jeep pump for sale cheap if anyone wants it.

How did you handle the pulley change-over?