Power steering pump choice?

[Limey57]

My Ranchero has a "Wurth-it" rack conversion which uses (I think) a GM power rack.  I have a 1979 302 with vee-belt pulleys and I need to sort a P/S pump and brackets to suit, I haven't got one yet.  Anyone suggest what pump is best to suit the rack, I'm getting LOTS of conflicting information, some say I have to be careful with pressures, some say a Saginaw is best, etc, etc.

Anyone got any advice?

Thanks

[lalessi1]

I recently saw where GM pumps are higher pressure than Ford almost across the board. GM rack, GM pump would be my guess.

[gasman826]

You are correct in being cautious.  All pumps are NOT created equal.  The '57 PS pump has a 700# pressure relief valve.  But the same looking system on a '63 Galaxie has a 1100# relief valve.  Pressure as well as flow rates vary all over the place.  I built my R&P similar to the Wurth-It design using a Caviler style rack.  Since I used a Cardone remanufactured rack, I called their engineering support number.  This guy was very helpful.  He said the rack had a working pressure between 2100-2500 psi.  So I asked more questions.  I am using the Ford style hydraulic brake booster with the matching Ford pump (all off a '76 Lincoln).  He looked it up and that system also runs in the 2100-2500 psi range.  I just lucked out to have pieced together a matching system from two different manufacturers.  So if you are going with new, aftermarket pump and brackets, ask the manufacturer for the specs and/or recommendation.  If you are going used, I'd look for a 5.0 engine on a vehicle with R&P for brackets and pump.  Fords typically run lower pump pressures but vehicles with R&P have similar pressure.  I have nearly 10k miles on my Custom and love the steering ease and response (even with the reduced turning).

[RICH MUISE]

I also have the r & P with the cavalier rack. I was told there would be no problem with the oem pump that was on the 4.6 (95 Lincoln Mark VIII) and there have been no issues.