Steering Upgrades for 1965–1973 Classic Mustangs — Precision, Feel, and Control

The steering system on a first-generation Ford Mustang (1965–1973) can make or break the driving experience. From loose on-center feel to vague feedback and slow response, the original recirculating ball design simply can’t match the precision and responsiveness drivers expect today. Fortunately, Stang-Aholics offers a range of modern steering upgrade kits — from quick-ratio steering boxes to full rack-and-pinion and electric assist conversions — engineered to dramatically improve handling, feedback, and driver confidence.

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Rack-and-Pinion Steering: The Gold Standard

65–70 Mustang TCP Rack and Pinion Kit, Power (Total Control Products)

The TCP Power Rack and Pinion brings modern steering geometry to ‘65–70 Mustangs by replacing the original steering linkage with a true center-take-off rack. Designed for power assist and featuring straight-cut gears with a quick ratio requiring just ~3 turns lock-to-lock, this unit offers much sharper response than the stock steering box (factory ~4-5/8 turns) and even many performance OEM setups.

Technical highlights

• Quick ratio for responsive steering and precise directional changes.

• Uses factory mounting locations to simplify installation.

• Rigid cross-member design improves chassis stiffness at the lower control arms.

• Designed for both small and big-block engines with appropriate brackets.

Why it matters: Rack-and-pinion steering eliminates the on-center dead zone common in recirculating-ball systems and delivers more direct feedback — especially valuable during spirited driving or highway cruising.

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Late 67–70 Mustang Power Rack and Pinion, Small Block (Unisteer)

While details on the Stang-Aholics listing are limited, Unisteer rack-and-pinion kits for late ’67–’70 Mustangs are well-known for improving steering precision and travel – with typical lock-to-lock turns in the 2.5–2.75 range when paired with the correct pump and hardware.

Benefits

• Reduced steering effort and improved handling precision.

• Compatibility with coilover suspension and performance braking systems.

• Requires matching flow steering pump for proper assist.

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Integral Power Steering Box Upgrade Kits

If you’re restoring or freshening a classic Mustang with OEM-style steering, upgrading to a modern integral power steering box can remove the old ram-and-control valve setup that’s prone to leaks, play, and poor feedback.

1967–1970 Mustang Integral Power Steering Conversion Kits (Borgeson Universal)

This kit replaces the original steering box with a re-manufactured modern integral gearbox, designed to bolt in with minimal interference. Compared to the stock Ford setup, the quicker 14:1 ratio offers noticeably crisper steering while maintaining a period-correct power assist feel.

Key specs

• Fits small-block engines (289, 302, 351W) with factory pump hookup.

• Eliminates leaky control valves and dated hoses.

• Requires minimal modifications to column and pump plumbing.

Performance impact: The modern box gives a more controlled feel at highway speeds and tighter response in corners — ideal for street and weekend performance cars.

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Electronic Power Assist Steering Upgrade Kits

68–70 Mustang Electric Power Steering Conversion Kit (EPAS)

For builders who want the easiest steering effort without hydraulic plumbing, this electric-assist system installs under the dash and provides adjustable assist levels via a potentiometer. It works with both manual and hydraulic steering setups and offers more effortless turns at low speed (parking) without sacrificing highway stability.

Highlights

• 60 A electric motor with low ~9 A draw.

• Adjustable assist via a dash-mounted potentiometer.

• Clean install under dash with wiring harness included.

Best use case: Street-driven Mustangs where mechanical simplicity and adjustable assist are prioritized over traditional hydraulic feel.

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Improved Mechanical Steering — Faster OEM Feel

67–70 Mustang Quick Ratio Steering Box (16:1)

Not all projects need a full conversion. For those keeping the original steering linkage, a quick-ratio steering box is a direct bolt-in upgrade over the stock 19:1 or older power box ratios. It tightens the steering response without changing geometry or adding pumps.

Why choose this

• Sharper steering feel with reduced wheel rotation per degree of turn.

• Preserves classic steering layout with improved performance.

• Great for daily drivers or period-correct builds.

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Which Upgrade Is Right for You?

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Final Thoughts

Upgrading the steering on your classic Mustang isn’t just about comfort — it’s about control, confidence, and safety. Whether you want the precision of a rack-and-pinion system, the reliability of a modern integral power box, or the simplicity of electric assist, Stang-Aholics has solutions tailored to every build and budget.