Pump Problems
In the August '05 issue, the article "Odd-Fire Ball" had a clear picture of the Buick 225 engine. I noticed that there is a power steering pump on it. I have a '66 CJ-5 with a 225, and I have been rebuilding the Jeep from the frame up. Power steering is one of the modifications I have been wanting to do along with the D.U.I. ignition. I have done a spring-over on it, and I just ordered a fiberglass tub for it. I also have a set of 35s on it. I have been looking around for information, how-tos, or tips, but nothing has really turned up. I have been trying to figure out where I can find the pump, box, and column off it. Is there any way you could tell me how yours is set up or maybe send better photos and also the year of it. If you could send anything it would be greatly appreciated.
Jonathan Smith
Manchester, NH
Sorry, but the pump and mount were on the engine when I was given the donor vehicle by my friend. I'm told, however, that you can get the power steering pump and bracket off a later-model '70s or '80s 231 Buick V-6 and use them on your 225. I've also heard that you can use the pump and bracket from a late '60s through mid '70s Buick 350 on the 225, so you may give that a shot. I used the stock column of my '71 CJ, but you could pirate a column from a '70s GM vehicle in the junkyard and make it fit with some fabrication, or look for an old Postal DJ-5 and snag the column from that.
I used all the parts and pieces from Advance Adapters for my conversion, but if the Advance power steering conversion is a bit intimidating to you, you could contact Herm Tilford at ATV Manufacturing, 360/256-3843, www.hermtheoverdriveguy.com. The company has developed a power steering conversion kit that places the power steering box in front of the radiator crossmember and uses a bolt-on power steering box mount, so there's a lot less fabrication involved.
Got a tech question you're just itching to get answered? Send it on in to Jp Magazine, Your Jeep, 6420 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048, or e-mail christian.hazel@primedia.com.