Ralph (aka Ralfabco), told me that my suspicions of 355s with manual steering were true......but euro spec only!! This is cool, as it allows hope for that perfect 355. When I think back, I remembered how I used to hate the 348, and adore the 355. On paper the 355 was clearly a superior performer, and I liked the looks a bit more as well. But upon learning that it was power steering only, it lost some of its appeal. After driving a 348, I can't imagine a mid engined V8 Ferrari needing power steering.. Anyways, not to get into a 348 vs. 355 thread, but I wanted to know how feasible it would be to either import/locate a european 355?? Perhaps it's possible to purchase a euro spec steering rack, and install it in a US spec car? That sounds like a better idea. Just imagine the difference between driving a regular 355 with the assisted airbag wheel vs. an unassisted suede challenge wheel.
Have you looked into converting the car to non power steering? It will be MUCH less of a headache then trying to import a car from out of country, if you're doing that you may as well buy a new computer desk because you will damage your current after repeadetly banging your head on it. Our DOT and EPA offices are very understanding when it comes to importing a car from out of country (sarcasm) Regards, Kevin
No thanks -- no offence, but I'd go with PAS anytime. Anyway, each to their own, diversity is a good thing. So, to the useful stuff: The manual steering rack for the F355 has part number 157544 (Left hand drive). Retails at 687,13+Tax in Italy. However, it's not just a case of changing the rack. You will need to make a few other detail changes, eg. upper wishbones, PN 159371 for manual steer vs. 159372 power steer. If you're serious then the best thing to do would be to find a frendly F. Dealer and ask if you can sit with their parts book for a while to go through the suspension pages and spot the call-outs for manual vs. power. You'll also need to figure out what to do with the PAS pump and ancilliary drive belts, reservoir etc.
