Emilie Meyer
Corvette owners often take their power steering for granted, but the system is a mechanical wonder that is cost-effective and reliable with just basic maintenance. Power steering fluid is sent under pressure to the control valve and the relief valve. When the steering shaft is turned, the control valve sends fluid to the power cylinder, which uses a piston to aid in reducing steering effort. While power steering is a great feature, it can be messy to convert or repair. Corvette Central has kits available to convert Corvettes from 1963-1979 that were not factory-equipped with power steering. CorvetteForum also has detailed discussions on removing the oil pan from a 1967 Corvette with power steering. The process involves unbolting the idler arm from the frame and pushing the entire steering assembly forward to drop the pan.
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What You'll Learn
Unbolting the idler arm from the frame
- Locate the bolts: Begin by identifying the bolts that secure the idler arm to the frame. These bolts are typically found on the passenger's side of the vehicle.
- Remove the bolts: Using the appropriate tools, carefully remove the bolts that hold the idler arm in place. Make sure to place the removed bolts in a safe location to avoid misplacing them.
- Apply lubrication: Before proceeding, it is recommended to lubricate the idler arm grease fittings using a grease gun. This step helps ensure smooth movement and prevents excessive wear on the idler arm.
- Loosen the idler arm: With the bolts removed, the idler arm should be free to move. However, in some cases, it may still be attached firmly to the frame. If this occurs, you can use a tool like a pickle fork to gently pry it loose. For more stubborn cases, a tie rod puller (separator) can be rented or purchased to assist in separating the idler arm from the frame.
- Move the steering linkage: Once the idler arm is successfully unbolted and loosened from the frame, you can now move the entire steering linkage assembly. Push it forward to create the necessary clearance for dropping the oil pan.
Remember to work carefully and wear appropriate safety gear when working underneath your vehicle. Additionally, it is always recommended to consult a qualified mechanic or seek professional advice if you are unsure about any part of the process.
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Rotating the balancer to the 5 o'clock position
To modify a Corvette oil pan for power steering, you will need to unbolt the idler arm from the frame on the passenger's side. This will allow you to move the entire linkage out of the way and create the necessary clearance to drop the pan.
Once the bolts holding the idler arm have been removed, the next step is to rotate the balancer to the 5 o'clock position. This is done to provide the required clearance to drop the pan. It is important to note that you might encounter some challenges with the steering linkage due to the power steering ram cylinder.
In such cases, you can try unbolting the shaft end and compressing it inward to clear the frame bracket. This action will drop the linkage by a couple of inches, making it easier to drop the pan.
Additionally, removing the starter will provide access to the pan bolts. However, this step might not be necessary for all models.
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Removing the steering linkage
To remove the steering linkage, first, unbolt the idler arm from the frame on the passenger's side. You can then move the whole linkage out of the way, providing enough room to drop the pan.
If your steering linkage won't drop enough due to the power steering ram cylinder, you can try unbolting the shaft end, compressing it inward to clear the frame bracket, which should drop the linkage by a couple of inches.
Before starting, it is recommended to join a Corvette forum to get better advice than what is available on general car repair forums.
It is not necessary to lift the engine to remove the oil pan. However, it can be a messy job with multiple lines containing fluid that must be detached and reattached. When you have the hoses disconnected, do not move the wheels, or power steering fluid will spill. Refill the reservoir with power steering fluid. Power steering fluid is specially designed to offer higher heat resistance.
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Removing the starter
To remove the starter from a Corvette, follow these steps:
First, get the car to an accessible height so you can work underneath it. Position yourself behind the right front wheel, and use a ramp or a jack with jack stands to ensure safety and stability.
Next, disconnect the battery. Remove the positive battery cable with a 9/16 wrench or socket on a ratchet. There may be a tube that the wires pass through, held in place by a bolt, so be sure to remove this as well.
Now, remove the starter wires. There will be two small wires going to the solenoid. Tag them to keep track, as one will go to the "S" terminal, and the other to the "R" terminal. Remove these with a 5/16 nut driver.
Finally, remove the bolts holding the starter in place. There should be two bolts that hold the starter to the engine, which you can remove with a 9/16 wrench or socket. With these bolts removed, you can now lower and remove the starter.
If you are having trouble reaching the bolts or wires, you may find it easier to first lower the starter slightly before removing the wires.
Additionally, if you are working on a Corvette with power steering, note that you may need to remove the starter to access some of the oil pan bolts.
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Applying sealant to prevent leaks
When modifying a Corvette oil pan for power steering, it is important to apply sealant to prevent leaks. This is a crucial step to ensure the integrity of the oil pan and avoid potential messes or damage caused by leaking fluids. Here are the steps to effectively apply sealant:
Clean the Mating Surface: Before applying any sealant, it is essential to clean the mating surface of the oil pan thoroughly. Use a suitable solvent or degreaser to remove any grease, oil, or debris that may be present. A clean surface will ensure that the sealant adheres properly and creates a strong, leak-proof bond.
Choose the Right Sealant: Select a high-quality sealant that is specifically designed for use with engines and oil pans. Look for a product that is resistant to high temperatures and compatible with the materials of your oil pan and gasket. A gasket maker product, such as a silicone-based sealant, is often a good choice for this application.
Apply the Sealant: Follow the instructions on your chosen sealant for proper application. Typically, you will need to apply a thin, even layer of sealant to the mating surface of the oil pan and any other areas where leaks could occur, such as the front cover and rear oil seal housing. Use a sealant gun or a similar tool to ensure a controlled and precise application.
Assemble the Parts: After applying the sealant, carefully reassemble the oil pan, ensuring that all bolts are tightened correctly. Refer to the Corvette's service manual or seek guidance from a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about the reassembly process. It is crucial to avoid over-tightening the bolts, as this can cause damage to the oil pan or gasket.
Cure and Testing: Allow the sealant to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions before starting the engine. This typically involves letting the sealant dry for a specified period. Once cured, refill the system with power steering fluid and test for leaks. Check all connections and components for any signs of leakage, and ensure that the fluid level remains stable.
By following these steps and paying close attention to detail, you can effectively apply sealant to your modified Corvette oil pan, preventing leaks and ensuring the proper functioning of your power steering system. Remember to consult a professional mechanic or a Corvette specialist if you have any doubts or concerns during the process.
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Frequently asked questions
To remove the oil pan from your Corvette, unbolt the idler arm from the frame and rotate the balancer to the 5 o'clock position. You may also need to unbolt the shaft end and compress it inward to clear the frame bracket.
Power steering fluid is specially designed to offer higher heat resistance. When you have the hoses disconnected, do not move the wheels or a shower of power steering fluid will ensue. Refill the reservoir with power steering fluid, not automatic transmission fluid.
The power steering system consists of a reservoir, pump, relief valve, control valve, power cylinder, and high/low-pressure hoses.
