1965-1966 Manual Steering Adapter Kit

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This section shows the design and workings of an adapter setup that is made to fit the original 1965-1966 V8 Mustang centerlink assembly and convert it to full manual steering. This kit replaces the control valve assembly so all hoses and hydraulics can be removed from the car. It is intended to be a cheaper and easier way to convert to manual steering without having to install original style manual steering components. Although the basic design is similar to what Ford used on some larger car models in the late 1950's and early 1960's, it was never used, sold or serviced by Ford for a conversion.

This kit discards the control valve assembly and replaces the Ball Stud components inside the end of the centerlink with heavier replacement parts. Although it appears to use the same Ball Stud as the power steering setup, the Ball Stud Seats, Bumper Spring and Bumper are much bigger. An End Plate bolts to the flange on the end of the centerlink, holding all the parts in place. There is an Adjustment Bolt that is used to compress the Bumper Spring just enough to put tension on the Ball Stud through the Seats, but loose enough to let the Ball Stud swivel and move without binding.

These pictures better detail the End Plate and the Adjustment Bolt. There is a recess machined into the back of the End Plate to fit the lip on the outer end of the centerlink flange. Once adjusted, a locknut is used to hold the adjustment in place.