need wider steering rack. Ideas? Sources?

[fiero308]

and I will probably cross post this as it might be a "General" topic or a "Parts" requirement (yes) and it is definitely a "Mod"........
oh well...
No offence, anyone; I just need to start sourcing a wider steering rack or a place that can rebuild it ..... a bit longer?  Is that possible?
My final front end arrangement is wider than the stock fiero by 2 3/4" total.  The body is actually 4" wider, but the hub/wheel etc mods make a requirement for this addition to my steering rack.

So does anyone know of sources, similar racks, similar ENDS that might add the extra bit?
Any input is appreciated.
Thanks!
GP

[2ML67]

Unless you are planning to add power steering than you might have a problem as most racks are built for power assist. That said isn't the F body one just slightly larger. I can measure one up next time I am at the wreckers or the dimensions might be on Pennocks, I believe someone was working on using them in Fiero's or at least trying to. Dan

[fiero308]

hi Dan
I don't want to get into power steering, that is for sure.
I don't mind the manual effort and prefer the feel and don't want to add ANY weight to this sucker unless I HAVE to.
I wonder if I CAN just swap ends, tho?
Would it be possible to take a fiero END only to compare for length?  I can get the taper changed; that isn't a prob.

If you DO happen to see one and can get a measurement, let me know, please and thanks!
Graeme

[cowans]

Grame, my front end is 2" wider than stock! You can do 1 of three things...
1) There are different length arms that can be retrofitted to your rack.
2) Held makes extensions.. (2>4" adapter extensions) that have a male & female threaded ends. You just screw them on the ends of your rack and cut to length and screw on your tie rod end.
3) Some ball ends have different threaded lengths. The Fiero ones are actually longer by 1" than others.
I am installing power steering this winter and would suggest you do the same if you will be running any fat/large size wheel!@ ask me how I know!!!!
Sandy

[fiero308]

hi Sandy
THANKS for the input.
Yeah; mine is 2" wider each side, too. 
I think I know what you are talking about but I have actually changed a lot about my front end geometry; different/100% custom knuckle/stub axle etc (camaro/fiero bastardization) to try to minimize my scrub radius and thus hopefully, steering effort.  I am set up for IROC Z 16" rims with a very different offset etc.  To make it work I had to get the "REAR" rims onto the front and so on and so forth; they had the best offset for my purposes.

 It should be pretty good, in fact, close to zero.  I might be able to send you a pic to show you what I have done if you are interested.  That being said...... I am not ruling out the power steering, but that is simply a long way down my list at the moment.  Maybe it is ignorance on my part, but I don't think that will be such a big deal if/when I do that.  My motor, in fact, is built for power steering and I have to go to some work to replace it with a dummy pulley, but right now that is the quickest thing for me to do.

Yup, I am running a 225/50/16 front; or at least PLANNING on it.... (embarrasssed grin)
I will follow up your suggestions tho, they are good leads.
Thanks!  Appreciate it!
Graeme