bigheadmike Posted August 14, 2011 Share Posted August 14, 2011 Hey guys - new to the forum and new to antique Fire trucks. I am considering purchase of a moderately restored 1940 Mack Pumper truck to use in a small business enterprise. It would only be functional for me if I could have my wife as an occasional driver and that is just not going to happen without power steering(she's a pretty small gal). Are there common P/S conversions out there for these old trucks or is it more hassle than it's worth? I don't really want to do anything that greatly diminishes the value or the potential for a more comprehensive restoration in the future.I would greatly appreciate any info you could share. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rob Posted August 14, 2011 Share Posted August 14, 2011 Hey guys - new to the forum and new to antique Fire trucks. I am considering purchase of a moderately restored 1940 Mack Pumper truck to use in a small business enterprise. It would only be functional for me if I could have my wife as an occasional driver and that is just not going to happen without power steering(she's a pretty small gal). Are there common P/S conversions out there for these old trucks or is it more hassle than it's worth? I don't really want to do anything that greatly diminishes the value or the potential for a more comprehensive restoration in the future.I would greatly appreciate any info you could share.This would not be to bad of deal to do. You can adapt many steering gears to fit the need, or Garrison in California will build whatever you require if you supply dimensions needed for the parts.Rob Quote Plodding along with no job nor practical application for my existence, but still trying to fix what's broke. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bigheadmike Posted August 14, 2011 Author Share Posted August 14, 2011 Thanks Rob. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fxfymn Posted August 17, 2011 Share Posted August 17, 2011 You may want to try the rig out before you spend the money to do the conversion. My 52 A Model is surprisingly easy to turn without power steering, especially compared to the 53 IH I just sold. Make sure the tire pressure is correct, the front end parts are properly greased, and it may surprise you.You will also have to teach her to plan her turns so she turns the steering wheel while the rig is moving; a skill most younger drivers don't have since the advent of universal power steering has eliminated the need to plan ahead to make a turn. Quote Money, sex, and fire; everybody thinks everyone else is getting more than they are! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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