With my pending front suspension rebuild looming, I'll be changing out the power steering box, pump and hoses also. Is the 12:1 from Chip at powersteering .com (or any of the other aftermaket) quick ratio boxes gain you that much over a stock unit? The stock P/S unit is published (per the Chassis service manual) at 17.5:1 (3-3/4 turn L/L) and the quick ratio from Chip at 12:1 (2-1/2 - 3 turns L/L). It's about $130 or higher than a stock reman AC Delco unit to go the quick ratio route. I guess it's up to each person to decide if it makes dollars and $en$e, or if it's needed based on the amount, or lack thereof, driving we get to do (which ain't nearly enough), but I'd like to hear some IMO's and .02's please.
Thanks for your time,
Rob

 

What you will gain with the 12:1 is better road feel and better steering response. It will also take less steery wheel turns to make a u-turn but the wheel will be a little harder to turn. Harder to turn is better when going straight. At highway speeds, the front end will feel tighter, not having to turn the steery wheel as much to correct for wind gusts, bumps, etc. I can attest to that with manual steering in my old Ford, the highway feel is quite good.

You are planning on going the route I plan to, by using one of Chip's rebuild services.
Keep in mind he will also clean it up and paint it for ya also. I like the idea of being able to keep my same box, too.

 

Chip is a great guy and does a great job. He is also and Olds guy. I highly recommend him.

 

I've only heard good things about Chip's service. I will probably send my power steering gear box to him some day over the rainbow.

 

X3. Excellent service, excellent product. You'll be happy.