Possibly buying another Mk2 Golf with manual steering, but would be wanting to convert it to powered steering. I've done a quick scan on the web and found that you can fit electric versions. Has anyone got any experience of these? Are they any good? Thanks! https://easysteer.co.uk/how-it-works/
A company used to convert the steering column using Vauxhall Corsa parts iirc. I've gone manual steering on my Mk2 16v but not driven it yet!.
I think it depends on what sort of driving experience you want. I've got a corsa derived electric steering column on my VW T25 van. It definitely doesn't 'feel' as connected as a hydro system. Fine for a brick-shaped wedge with the handling characteristics of a shoe box but not something I'd be keen for on my Mk2. Some of the kits like the link you posted auto-adjust depending on your steering input, whereas others have a dial for manual adjustment so that's something to consider. I drove a splitscreen with an auto kit once and it was bloody awful being waaaay over-assisted at all times, although I'm sure things have improved in recent years! I think I'd be inclined to either stick with manual or go for a full OEM hydro setup if you're desperate for PS.
My My steering rack was in poor condition including the hard lines and the pump was on it's last legs. May regret going manual but decided to give it a try.
I have done four corsa conversions now, 2 off mk1, 1 off mk2, 1 off ibiza All deemed a success, although you must get the column angle correct. Reasoning is with a quick rack, tight LSD and sticky tyres its physically difficult to get the car turned fast enough for chicanes, when rallying. Added bonus is when the back end snaps away from you, you have a much better chance of catching it, without getting int a tank slapper Jon
Not experienced it myself, well as a retrofit, our mgf has epas and it's brilliant but it's factory fit. Did talk to a geezer that had a rover p4 with a range rover diesel in it, he fitted a corsa column conversion and raved about it, used an adjustable controller box, which he said you have to remember to adjust for parking or driving as he found it unnerving when on motorway and hadn't turned assistance down. If there's a way to utilise a vss signal on a mk2 etc I'm sure it would be ideal, but couldn't you use a modified mk3 rack/etc with mk2 track rods? Or use an electric pump from a polo 9n3 with hydraulic rack, or saxo, clio etc also use them, is that what you used @Jon Olds in the past, or am I recalling something else. There's a video on YouTube of rotbox restoration fitting a corsa column in a mk1 caddy.
No, its fine. I didnt have an alternate, it was a conversion that was essential. I did make it speed sensitive in all cases, which may help. Jon
Would you consider doing a paid conversion for a fellow Club Gti member And what sort of money would I be looking at?
