Jeep Steering Conversion Kits & Heavy-Duty Components

Modern Control for Vintage Iron

Driving a vintage Jeep CJ, MB, or GPW often means wrestling with the vague, wandering feel of the factory "Ross" cam-and-lever steering system. This bellcrank-style linkage was adequate for low-speed farm work in the 1940s, but it struggles to handle modern highway speeds, lifted suspensions, and larger tires.

At Advance Adapters, we specialize in Saginaw Steering Conversions. By replacing the antiquated Ross system with a modern Saginaw steering box mounted to the frame rail, you gain precise control, improved safety, and the clearance needed for V8 engine swaps.

The Problem: The "Ross" Steering System

The stock steering on 1941–1971 Jeeps uses a worm gear box at the base of the column connected to a maze of drag links and bellcranks. This design has numerous wear points, resulting in excessive "play" in the steering wheel. Furthermore, the stock steering shaft often interferes with the exhaust headers and motor mounts when swapping in a Chevy or Ford V8.

The Solution: Our Jeep Steering Kits eliminate the bellcrank entirely. We mount a Saginaw steering box (manual or power) directly to the front frame rail. This provides a direct, solid link to the wheels and clears the engine bay for your new powertrain.

Product Categories

Complete Conversion Kits

We offer comprehensive packages to modernize your Jeep’s steering:

• Power Steering Kits (1942-1970): Includes the mounting plate, pitman arm, and shaft components to install a Saginaw power steering box. Ideal for off-road builds running 33" or larger tires.
• Manual Steering Kits: A robust solution for lighter Jeeps where simplicity and reliability are paramount.
• Partial Kits: For builders sourcing their own boxes, we offer kits minus the column yoke and spud shaft.

Essential Components

Building a custom steering system requires precise connection points.

• Spud Shafts: These critical adapters allow you to retain your factory steering column by converting the hollow stock shaft into a solid DD or splined interface for a U-joint.
• Steering Universal Joints: Heavy-duty Borgeson-style joints to route your steering shaft around headers and motor mounts without binding.
• Steering Boxes & Mounting Plates: Heavy-duty brackets to weld or bolt the Saginaw box securely to the frame rail.

Technical Guide: Diagnosing Steering Issues

Before you replace parts, identify the source of your "death wobble" or steering slop.

1. The "Dead Spot" in the Wheel If you can turn the steering wheel 2–3 inches before the tires move, check the Tie Rods & Tie Rod Ends. However, on vintage Jeeps, this is usually caused by wear in the factory Ross box worm gear or the bellcrank pivot pin on the front crossmember.
2. Binding While Turning If the steering feels "notchy" or hard to turn in specific spots, check your steering shaft angle. Universal joints have a maximum operating angle (typically 35 degrees). Exceeding this will cause the joint to bind.
3. Fluid Leaks (Power Steering) If you are running a power conversion, check the Steering Pumps & Hoses. High-pressure lines near exhaust headers can degrade quickly. Ensure all lines are routed away from heat sources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What steering box do these kits use?

Our conversion kits are designed to use Saginaw recirculating ball steering boxes, commonly found on 1970s GM cars and Jeeps. These boxes are renowned for their durability and parts availability.

Can I keep my original steering wheel and column?

Yes, but it requires modification. The stock steering box is often integral to the steering column shaft. You must cut the stock shaft and install an Advance Adapters Spud Shaft and bushing. This allows you to connect the stock column to a new intermediate shaft and U-joints.

Do I need a power steering cooler?

For a street-driven Jeep, usually not. However, if you use the vehicle for rock crawling or run large tires (35"+) with a locker, the power steering fluid can overheat. Adding a small cooler is cheap insurance for your pump and box.

Will this kit clear my headers?

Yes. One of the primary reasons for the Saginaw conversion is to create room for V8 headers. By moving the steering box to the front frame rail, we clear the space between the frame and the engine block where the stock Ross box used to sit.