I have a 1973 camaro with a leaking power steering pump. I would like to rebuild the pump but have some questions. If anybody has had any experience with this thier feedback will be appreciated. I have a 71 c20 pickup project that I pulled the motor and accesories from. Upon doing a little research the part numbers from the c20 and camaro pumps do not match. I am not sure if it is due to a difference in the pump fittings/bolt positions or because saginaw changed the shape of the resivoir in mid 71. I would like to take my time and rebuild the 71 pump and then bolt in on the 73 motor (I don't want to risk having the car down for more than one day, summer is drawing to a close and I still have a bit more cruising to do). Are there any particular reasons this would not work?

Also, while the pump is off, is there any measurable advantage to underdrive the pulley on the pump? I have a new after market quick ratio steering gear and 245/50 tires on 15x7 rims. I don't want to sacrifice the life span of the pump if it is not going to free up any real horse power.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Tony

 

I can't answer your interchangeability question, but a few quick measurements will tell you if it's dimensionally the same, and that's all that really matters.
As for losing or gaining horsepower, I wouldn't waste time modifying a power steering pump. The gain would be small, and only when you're turning. The pump just turns when going straight, with little or no draw against the motor. So if you've got your foot into it, and you're going striaght, no problem. A slight turn wont draw much, and I doubt you'll be deep into it when parallel parking.