TR power steering?

I've tried searching but to no luck. My uncle has a 1990 TR and loves it to pieces. The problem is he's 71 and the steering effort kills him. Anyone have any knowledge of introducing power steering successfully?

Thanks much!

Brian

 

Greetings.. Not to my knowledge unless you can put a 512TR set-up. Would be pretty pricey.. You would need the rack, pump, pullys, run another belt and run hydrolic lines to the front.... My suggestion... Tell him to buy up to a 512TR and give the Testarossa to you to enjoy.

R

 

Ha! I even told him maybe he needs to visit the gym. The search continues but i like the 512 idea.

 

512TR's are supposed to have power steering? I wonder if a p/o stripped the power steering pump and hoses out of my 512TR, cuz it's definitely manual!!

Seriously, I understand that the 512TR steering rack was changed and is different from the Testarossa, but not powered. Perhaps others can speak to interchangeability.

+1...Excellent suggestion!

 

512's do not and never had power steering.

 

Thanks for the confirmation... I stand corrected.. Still think he should buy a newer model with power steering and hand down the TR to the youngster..

Be well..

Robbie

 

+1

Newer model suggestion(easier to handle at parking lot speeds)

 

I looked into this and it is doable with the newer electric powersteering units. I have attached the thread where I noted the supplier. The only concern would be someone would have to attach it. I was planning on doing this, but alas other more important mods have come along.
http://ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=221590&highlight=power+steering

John

 

I actually like the fact that the TR has no power steering. Yes it is a pain when trying to park but it commands that you always have two hands on the wheel and that is a good thing. Plus it just feels right..

R

 

Power steering......just pull the E-brake handle like in the Audi (I think) commercial

 

I believe there was a TR in New Orleans with power steering . You may try posting in the Louisiana section.

 

The nice part about the mod I was going to make was you could program the assist to be speed sensitive, so you could eliminate the assist say over 30 mph. Then the manly boys who still cut their yards with a mechanical push mower will be happy.

John

 

John- I like this idea and have dug into that website. Electric assist is even better so you do not have an additional pulley soaking up HP. An email sent to thier guys...

 

Thanks Frank, new thread posted in the LA section

 

Here is a group in England that have made a kit available for the 308's. You might shoot them off an email too.


http://www.ezpowersteering.nl/index.php?p=3

John

 

+1 Yup, that's who I sent my email to. Thanks!

 

When I switched my '87 TR to 18" wheels and wider tires the low speed steering effort went up. I countered it by removing the spare tire, jack kit, knockoff wrench and lead hammer and replaced all that with a 12v air pump and a sealant bottle. The steering effort and overall steering feedback and feel were greatly improved. Your uncle's TR wouldn't lose qute that much weight, but he would notice a difference.

 

You could try to match up your steer rack with a power unit out there and put an electric MR2 steering pump on it. You would need a by pass valve to relieve the pressure at higher speeds.

 

consider a larger diameter steering wheel.....
Rgds,
Vince

 

After reading the very positive report (UK Mr Raven) on the EZ powersteering I was very interested in this matter.

I have just contacted the (Dutch !) firm Ezpowersteering today and asked for a demonstration.

They are prototyping a set for TR just now and maybe I will buy this set when ready.

Installation is done by them selves untill now but seems not to be too difficult.

They said they are interested in a F (Chat?) contact in USA who can install it.

Prices will be around € 3000 - 3400 incl installation, other prices to follow.

Anyone interested ? Mail me if you like with [email protected]

I will keep you all informed of course.


Gr from Mel in NL.

 

Great to hear Mel. I sent them an email but being in the states I won't have a first hand look at things. I'll be anxious to hear your report!

Brian

 

I'd like the pros on that idea...

 

What a bunch of wussies. You think low speed steering on a TR is heavy, try a 78 308. Same goes for the clutch. Way heavier than a TR.
In comparison it feels like the TR HAS power steering.

 

.......................and a "Trucker Knob" while you're at it.

 

LOL! Awe come on Spasso... my uncle pleads like it's his dying wish to get out there and drive. Imagine when your old enough to have to rest up after a drive.


p.s. he did have a late 70's 308 but he was only in his 50's back then!

Cheers,
Brian