Experience with Mustang II PS Racks with GM Saginaw Pumps

[kitcarbp]

For those that have experience with the subject popular set-up, I want to learn from your experiences. My set-up uses the 77/78 Mustang II rack and the "P" type GM Saginaw Metric pump (post 1980).

PRESSURE RELIEF SETTING ?I want to know what pressure relief setting you have set on the valve inside the pump (I have read it should be lowered to 700-800 psi for the Must II racks). I have researched a bit and learned the GM saginaw pumps depending on the application are set to 1,100-1,450 psi relief.

I set up my valve using the Mullins/Borgenson shim kit to an estimated 800-900psi since I understand the Must II racks can't tolerate pressure above that without blowing the rack seals ? Anybody validated this with a hyd pres gauge ? (thats my next step).


Road feel at speed.
I have read the GM Saginaw pumps (depending on the flow valve orifice size installed) are rated from 2.4 to 3.5 gal/min for flow based on OEM figures.
I understand that the Must II racks need no more than 2.0 gal.min, as beyond that flow rate, you loose road feel from over assist ? I know of the Heidts adjustable flow valve and would appreciate feedback on those here that used it. I found a flow valve with 2.0 gpm sold by Speedway Motors for use with Must II racks. Anybody use this flow valve to increase road feel ?

Fluid Temps
With the above Rack/Pump combinations, have you had to add a cooler to keep the PS fluid temps under the target max of 180F ?
I am using Dexron ATF not the mineral based hydraulic oil.

What sayeth wise ones here on CC ?

Thanks

Bill

[jdean]

I used this set up in my Classic Roadster. Power steering is great to have. I just bought one of the reduction valves that screw into the pump, no problems with leaks or road feel.

[kitcarbp]

JDEAN, Thanks Have you measured your PS fluid temps and are you running a PS cooler ? The SPEEDWAY 2.0 gpm flow fitting is my next step.
Bill