1 - Is a manual rack easier to steer than a stock, bypassed steering rack?

2 - Are there any options besides the Madman piece?

3 - What is the avg weight difference between the stock and a manual rack?

TIA,
Ryan

 

Oh god yes. It was damn near impossible to move my car around in the shop with the bypassed power rack. With the manny rack, it was a LOT easier.
Not that I know of. Brian's setup is nice because everything is done for you..bump steer, mounting tab & brackets, new sector shaft
Just the racks themselves are about 4-5# difference. Add to that, the power steering pump (8-10#) and the fluid (another 5-6#), not to mention less parasitic drag from the pump pulley. You also gain a little more clearance on the driver's side with the manual rack since it moves the shaft closer to the frame rail. Comes in handy when running a large downpipe.

Here's the pics I took when I installed it....
http://www.quarter-mile.net/images/TA/steering/

 

I have my stock setup looped and it's hard to turn.

I am getting a Madman rack.

 

There are NUMEROUS other setups beyond Madmans. FJ Smith, PA Racing, AJE, and Apple Tree Racecars all have this type of setup available.

My recommendation though is to try to buy everything (K-Member, Rack, Bump Steer, Steering link) from one place no matter who you choose, rather then trying to piece it all together.

Good luck!

 

Talked to FJ Smith today. Very helpful.

Thanks for the replies.
Ryan

 

I'm totally aware of the weight savings a manual steering rack provides but just much horsepower is freed up by eliminating power steering. Thanks

 

Do you absolutely need to get a new K-member to convert to a manual rack?

 

no you dont. im pretty sure at least PA racing offers the manual rack for the stock kmember,as some of those other shops.

 

I used a flaming river manual box, and the darn thing steers like it has power steering even when the engine doesn't run which is better than power last time I checked. Saved 45 pounds and easier to steer. Yes please.

 

My Madman unit worked with the stock mounting points on my k-member. I remember ordering my K from BMR thinking "nah, I'll never run a manual rack...that's crazy."

 

where can i get a manual rack and pinion for my ls1 car thanks kenny

 

www.madmanandcoracing.com

 

can my car still be a daily driver with this and not effect anything or wear out parts fast. Is it easy to turn with this setup madman

 

I've heard it's very easy to turn.

My stock looped stuff is very hard to turn.

 

How much do manual racks change the steering ratio? Im assuming they increase the turns lock to lock. Are they not good for autocross(handling) then?