Gene Fettig

Hi I have a 1955 super 88 Olds. completely restored I have spotted a complete power steering unit but the gentlmen is not sure if wants to sell it. My question is how much of a problem is it to change it over i have looked at it, and not quite sure how the steering column comes out would appreciate some comments and some help with this. Thank you. Geno.

oldcutlass

Welcome to the site, I moved your post to the Vintage section. They are a great bunch and should be able to answer any question you have. Post an intro in the Newbie section with some pics for us.

lonestarjarhead

The steering column has to come out with the steering gearbox.

redoldsman

The shaft comes out of the box and goes all the way up to the steering wheel.

Rocketowner

Geno, welcomed to Classic Olds.There is a step by step article on E-how on "Hot to remove a Chevrolet Manual Steering Column." It should be basically the same process on the Olds.I changed a '54 Chevrolet I had to power steering ,and remember it having a different Pittman arm. I would be sure to get the Pittman arm with the power steering gearbox.
Hope this helps, Larry

redoldsman

I added power steering and power brakes to my 54. It really makes the car a lot more enjoyable to drive. My suggestion if the condition of it is unknown is to ship it to Chip at Power Steering Services, Inc. in Springfield, MO and have him rebuild it. He is a great guy and does great work. Lots of folks on here have used him.

Gene Fettig

Thank you gentlemen your remarks were really helpful I have a pretty good understanding what has to be done, the only problem is I can't find a complete ps unit will have to keep on looking. Thanks for all of the advice. Geno

redoldsman

A complete unit is hard to come by. You need the steering sector, the pump and bracket and the double pulleys. The pitman arm may be different but I am not sure.

Gene Fettig

I found a complete ps unit, my question this unit is out of 1954 98 will it fit into my 1955 88 without any modification. would you email me. Thanks. verngeno@bis.midco.net

Gene Fettig

Gentlemen I finally got back on line I got my PS installed in my 55 olds. Sure is nice. Got kinda expensive till I got it over hauled. everything from a 53 thru 55 fit all fit mine came from a 54 everything was interchangeable. Thank guys for all of your advice. Geno.

redoldsman

Congrats Geno. It sure does make the car drive better. The cost is considerably more than it was from the factory in 1955.

Frank Allen

54 and 55 are exactly the same, remove floor plate, disconnect pitman arm, bold on frame and wireing and pull column out gear box and all, the power column will bolt right in, install double pulley on crank shaft and water pump , bolt pump to engine hook up lines and go for it. I pulled my out of a junk yard along with the power brake and put them in my car as is, had to rebuild the power brake, steering was installed as is and has worked perfect ever since, installed 17 yrs ago. hope this helps.

holidaysedan

I'm doing the same on a '58 Super 88, so is the outer shell of the steering column the same, in other words is it just the internal shaft of the column that needs changed, along with all the other stuff mentioned above?

Frank Allen

Holidaysedan, power steering on olds changed in 1956, will not fit older models, they added a rag joint, also the gear box will not fit older models, after 56 I don't know what changes are made. try to find a 58 so you can be certain things will fit.
Frank Allen

holidaysedan

Have the parts book, most of the '57 PS stuff is the same as '58 w/ minor exceptions, my friend has a '57 parts car and I already got all the PS parts. What I can't determine is if the outer shell of the steering column from my car is usable, it's in much better shape than the one off the parts car, but I have that one too, just in case.

Williamaronson

I would love a spare power steering column and box so as to get them rebuilt but still permit me to use the car. Anyone with any knowledge of anyone selling any units?

Allen Faltus

It is not difficult to remove the column and steering gear. It is all one assembly. Once you remove the steering wheel, directional signal lever and outer upper jacket, the whole assy. is removed from the bottom. It is heavy and long so best to have it on a lift. .