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Most modern cars have electric power-assist steering systems (EPS). These units are often referred to as steer-by-wire. An electric power-assist system employs a small electric motor to use the movements of the steering wheel to change the wheel’s direction. It’s time to consider an electric power steering conversion for your classic ride.
Electric Power-Assist Steering History
Most new cars use electric power-assist steering (EPS). These replace earlier mechanical and hydraulic systems. A manual steering system requires brute force to move the steering structure.
The hydraulic systems used hydraulic pressure from a pump to help move the wheels, requiring less human effort. However, a hydraulic steering system takes more space under the hood and is less fuel-efficient. The steering robs power from the engine to power the steering pump.
Some gearheads complain that EPS (sometimes called electric power-assisted steering or EPAS) makes the steering wheel feel numb and disconnected.
But that was mainly based on systems from the 1990s. Today’s systems are much more agile and responsive. The programming that controls the electric motor has improved over the last decade or so.
Shop now for electric power steering conversion kitsReasons to Convert to Electric Power Steering
Today’s electric power-assist products are more efficient than a hydraulic power steering unit. They are infinitely better than manual steering, which needs tons of force to turn the wheels, especially at low speeds.
California Datsun’s electric power steering column conversion kit for Datsun 240Z/260Z/280Z.
The hydraulic steering pump connects to the engine and robs it of five to eight horsepower. It also lowers fuel economy up to three miles per gallon.
With an EPS system, as the driver turns the steering wheel, a motor controls a reduction gear that moves the pinion gear along the steering rack. EPS supplies precise linear steering at all speeds.
It also offers these benefits:
- Better fuel efficiency means saving money at the pump.
- No worries about fluid leaks, broken steering pumps, bloated hoses, and cracked drive belts.
- Hydraulic systems are likely to fail, so EPS saves on repair costs.
Electric Power Steering Conversion Kits
This EPAS kit fits a 1968 to 1970 Ford Mustang.
An electric power steering assist conversion kit uses an electric motor rather than a steering pump. EPS kits work on vehicles with or without original hydraulic power steering. Many aftermarket companies offer electric power steering assist conversion kits. They cover a wide range of vehicles, including classics and hot rods.
By swapping out the hydraulic steering pieces, the engine bay is cleaner. That’s because the bulky hoses and power steering pump are out of the way. The best part? The classic cars can now use the hydraulic system’s extra horsepower.
Parts of a Conversion Kit
Depending on the manufacturer, the conversion kit has:
- An electric power steering control module (on-board computer)
- Torque sensor
- Permanent magnet motor
- Wiring harness
You can change your existing steering column to accept the kit. Because most kits use your car’s original steering wheel, there is no visible change from the driver’s seat. The kit fits under the dashboard and runs off a 12-volt power source.
Related: Upgrading Your Steering Column
Some aftermarket systems work only on steering-wheel torque. Others can sense wheel speed and traction control input for even more precise steering.
Most EPS systems have a default mode. A warning light flashes on the dash in the unlikely case of a failure. The vehicle is still safe to drive temporarily. But the driver must steer harder since the power assist is off.
An electric power steering assist system uses an electric motor rather than a steering pump, cutting parasitic power loss from the engine.
Converting to electric power steering assist needs a lot of parts and labor. A kit should cost under $1,500, and installation might take a weekend. But if you plan to keep and drive your classic car for a long time, an EPS system is worth the money. Once installed, the system is low maintenance and offers a nimble steering experience.
Pre-Owned Electric Power Steering Conversion Kits
You can also think about a used aftermarket electric power steering conversion kit. They often rely on systems from a General Motors car or one from Asian manufacturers.
Some kits use all-new parts, while others have recycled pieces. Among the used and new kits on eBay, the EPAS brand has all the parts and detailed instructions for the conversion.
Check out more on their Ford Mustang conversion kit in the video below:
Have any questions? Let us know in the comments below, and we’ll answer any questions.
