Will a SBC fit in a 73 Vega Htchback that has powersteering

[robert123]

Hi,

1) Will a SBC fit into a stock 73 Vega GT Hatchback -- that has the larger & longer power steering box?

2) Is it okay to put plugs in the power steering box -- where the rubber hoses come out -- and say bye-bye to the pump and hoses?

3) And, I'd like to use cast iron exhaust manifolds on the SBC. I read that Monza exhaust manifolds may work ... and also 72-73 Chevy truck exhaust manifolds. What would be some good stock exhaust manifolds for the Vega? Any manifolds made of aluminum?

Thanks

[cosvega76]

Robert,

In order: 1): Yes, with the proper exhaust manifolds/headers.

2): Yes, if you drain the fluid out of the gearbox. You should leave a little in there for lubrication, though. A word of caution, though: it will steer hard without the power assist because of the faster ratio.

3): Monza manifolds would be the easiest and best choice. The LH truck manifold may work, too. I went to the Sanderson shorty headers on mine when I switched to power steering. There are no aluminum exhaust manifolds.


Chuck

[robert123]

Robert,

In order: 1): Yes, with the proper exhaust manifolds/headers.

2): Yes, if you drain the fluid out of the gearbox. You should leave a little in there for lubrication, though. A word of caution, though: it will steer hard without the power assist because of the faster ratio.

3): Monza manifolds would be the easiest and best choice. The LH truck manifold may work, too. I went to the Sanderson shorty headers on mine when I switched to power steering. There are no aluminum exhaust manifolds.

Chuck

Cool. Thanks for the advice Chuck -- that helps a lot.

With the power steering think I'll drain and put in new ATF with Stop Leak. Or... top off with ATF with Stop Leak.
O'reilly has plugs that screw right into the p/s/ to eliminate the hoses.

[Smiley]

Some people run a loop between the fittings, it will be a lot harder to turn than manual steering.
Monza manifolds will fit the best.