For driver Shelby's like my 69 GT500 w/PS does anyone have experience with or grapevine info on the new steering boxes offered by Flaming River?
Are they any good?
Thanks,
TonyS
Quote from: TS69GT500 on March 08, 2026, 04:42:51 PMFor driver Shelby's like my 69 GT500 w/PS does anyone have experience with or grapevine info on the new steering boxes offered by Flaming River?
Are they any good?
Thanks,
TonyS
Why don't you have your original steering box rebuilt?
I don't know if quality has improved but my experience with the box is post #19
https://www.vintage-mustang.com/threads/flaming-river-steering-box.607390/
I'd vote for having the original rebuilt.
I've used them and they are OK. I now have originals rebuilt by Dan at Chockostang and they are fine too but a little cheaper and better.
When I had my '68 GT500 steering system rebuilt and restored, I sent the steering box, with pitman arm attached, slave cylinder, and control valve to Jim Cowles' Shelby Parts and Restoration, in WI. He did a great job.
I believe that Jessie(sp?), Jim's right hand man and replacement in training, took over operations. He's my recommendation. Check him out.
https://shelbypartsstore.com/
Steve
Quote from: Royce Peterson on March 09, 2026, 09:51:40 AMI've used them and they are OK. I now have originals rebuilt by Dan at Chockostang and they are fine too but a little cheaper and better.
++1
A thought. Many, older, steering box sector shafts are obsolete and extinct. As are the thrust bearings. I've rebuilt a few, early Bronco, PS boxes. Core condition varies widely. Finding "usable" sector shafts and spools is increasingly difficult. Also, the recirculating balls are selective in .0002 increments. I'm not aware of anyone having these made, or an OEM source. I was forced to modify INA iglide polymer thrust washers to replace bearings. There is a difference between reassembled and remanufactured.
Are the recirculating balls just Ball Bearings?
What about Randy in Texas?
He was supposed to be "THE MAN" when it came to rebuilding steering boxes.
I heard he was always a little difficult to contact and at times refuse new work due to the fact he had plenty to keep him busy. (refused me for this reason)
Don't know if he is still out there.
I had one installed on my 69 GT350 and the steering is just as loose as
my original box. And yes, it was adjusted as good as you can get it.
I recommend rebuilding your original box.