Competition Suspension - Manual Steering question

[Graham Man]

I know the power steering was different for the competition suspension (variable ratio) but was the manual steering also different?

 

[Hemikiller]

Ford used the same manual steering box with standard and competition suspension. Tags would be SMA-R or -T.

 

[Stanglover]

I'm not sure it was. I have a 71 Mach 1 with comp suspension that was originally manual steering (and drum brakes) and when I swapped in power steering, I found no difference in the supposed manual idler arm. Now, I did find a complete PS system off a 71 Mach 1 which bolted right in. I did need to find correct pulleys though and I got really lucky there by finding a set on the net that were even date code correct! As for the idler arm, I did replace that later with the best part available from NPD. I've run this now for about 10 years with zero problems.......... except needing to rebuild it all due to wear.

 

[MooseStang]

On a somewhat related subject, can I remove my pwr steering belt and run temporarily while I repair my pump?
Sorry for the hijack

 

[Hemikiller]

On a somewhat related subject, can I remove my pwr steering belt and run temporarily while I repair my pump?
Sorry for the hijack

Not a good idea, but I'd be lying if I said I haven't done it....