Converting column auto to M-20 w/ hurst 4sp;'71 455 in a '70 gs (was a 350 gs). Purchased conversion kit from The Parts Place. Lower arm of the z-bar hits the stock exhaust manifold. Appears that if lower arm of z-bar were situated another 1/2-3/4" away from block/manifold, there would be enough clearance...but the pushrod would engage clutch fork at a slight angle, which in turn may allow the pushrod to possibly slip out of the depression in clutch fork. Read Moleary's piece on the conversion, but doesn't help. Could the remanufactured clutch fork b that far off? Z-bar lines up perfectly with engine, frame, and clutch fork!!Also, have bought power steering brackets and yet to find any that have the correct bolt hole pattern. Thank you
Conversion is for the 455 I put in. Would the power steering pump be different between a 1970 and 1971 455? the person I bought the block from 2yrs ago said it was a '70, but found out later it is a '71. The pump was ordered 2 yrs ago when I though it was a '70 455. Also, would the z-bar be different from '70 to '71? thanks for your input
My 70 has a 71+ waterpump so that should not be an issue. the power steering brackets are different from skylark to big Buicks though... but should still bolt on. see this link http://www.buickperformanceclub.com/ps.htm