Power steering box question

[wilky70]

I replaced the power steering box in my 1972 Duster with one that I had rebuilt by a local company that specializes in steering boxes. I notice with the new steering box that the feel is very different, much heavier than the orginanl box. Almost feels like a modern car. The old one was typical 1970's feel, very light, almost no feeling. I replaced the pressure line and return line at the same time.
My question what would cause the steering to feel so different. I'm new to the Mopar world and don't know much about their power steering.
Thank you in advance.

 

[junkyardhero]

they likely upgraded or replaced the reaction springs, which can be common on rebuilds.

or, you're low on fluid.

or the tires are flat.

 

[CFD244]

They probably used thicker reaction springs. I had my box done as well and it's night and day......just like yours. Seems like the rebuilders worth their salt are doing the "firm feel" thing. I love it!

Treed by 3 raccoons in a trench coat

 

[Murray]

Check with the rebuilder, what internal mods did they make? Did you authorize any mods?

 

[wilky70]

Check with the rebuilder, what internal mods did they make? Did you authorize any mods?

We didn't talk about any mods, I will ask him.

 

[wilky70]

They probably used thicker reaction springs. I had my box done as well and it's night and day......just like yours. Seems like the rebuilders worth their salt are doing the "firm feel" thing. I love it!

Treed by 3 raccoons in a trench coat

I'll check with the rebuilder on Monday and see if he installed "thicker reaction springs".

 

[Oldmanmopar]

Here is what I know from the past. In the 70's when I drove them like I stole them.. If you can 1 finger it easily they lock up when getting out of the throttle to save it in a slide. The later boxes that had a firmer feel were less susceptible to doing this. One reason that if I had a car with big HP numbers that you had to aim not steer. I would go to a manual box. I would be very happy if they made my power steering firmer on my car if I were you.

 

[CFD244]

I'll check with the rebuilder on Monday and see if he installed "thicker reaction springs".

IIRC, the fellow that did mine said he puts .020 reaction springs in.

 

[Heywodja]

Most people seem to prefer the heavier feeling, I have always hated the Chrysler power steering due to ZERO road feedback..

First upgrade I do in my cars is replace the slush box with a Borgeson unit..
A body, E body and even my 58 Chevy truck