Has anyone installed power steering on an early 40s Olds? With wide tires and V8 it steers hard sitting still. Gotta be my next upgrade.

 

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Hard to know where to start on this query. I've never owned or modified a 40 Oldsmobile so can't answer your question directly. But I've built a number of street rods including changing front suspensions and adapting later steering mechanisms. So I have some idea of the challenges of adding PS.

Olds never had PS until 1953 so there would be no Factory PS column, gears or arms that would be a straight forward bolt up.

I think you are looking at some fairly complex fabrication issues and you should begin by talking with a shop that specializes in suspension modifications including PS. I'd recommend Fat Man Fabrications: http://www.fatmanfab.com/

You can use your Browser and search for other shops that do after market frame and suspension fabrication. There are a number of them. I recommended Fat Man Fabrications because they will take on about any year, make/model where some of the others specialize in more popular makes and years.

Sorry I can't do more than suggest a direction to take. If someone pops up who has a 40 Olds that has had a PS adapted I'd be surprised but pleased for you.
Jerry

 

Thanks Jerry I appreciate the info. I my mind I didn't think simple but like you said could be done by the right shop. I can live with it for awhile but the time will come when I will tire of wrenching on that wheel lol.

 

A power rack and pinion is the most popular for steering conversion. The Mustang II is/was very popular for years, and easy to adapt. Like Jerry said Fatman would be a good place to inquire. Speedway also sells a lot of racks, parts, kits for good prices.
Steve

 

If you keep wrenching the wheel, you'll eventually end up with some rather impressive "Popeye" forearms as a result.. As stout as I am, I am still amazed that the ladies of the forties drove these cars.... Sheer determination... I'll be content when I convert to radial tires!