Problem with Vega Power 400 box

[ng63]

I have bought and installed CPP's 400 series power steering box. After starting the engine and backing it out, the steering is not smooth as I turn the wheel. At one point it is very hard to turn, then after that it is very easy to turn, almost like the wheels aren't on the ground. This happens when turning left or right.

This box is in a 47 Ford Coupe with a SBC using the type II pump. Prior to installing this box, I had a 605 box installed. The 605 had leaks and occasionally stuck. Not good. I was hoping this box would solve my problem.

Does anyone have any input on what is causing this problem?

i installed same box on 63 chevy2 and have same problem. did you figure out what was causing the bind?

[Bobac455]

I too had a problem with this smaller steering box and with help from CCP determined that the rag joint extension tube was not drilled out to the correct size. The splined end is supposed to slide past the first set of male splines and onto the second set of splines on the box. This was impossible until someone counter bores the shaft hole to a larger diameter than the bottom of the splines. I also had to shorten the shaft by one quarter inch to make sure nothing would bind. CCP admitted they had made a bad batch of rag joint extensions but no compensation or corrected rag joint was offered.

[tbeck204]

I too had a problem with this smaller steering box and with help from CCP determined that the rag joint extension tube was not drilled out to the correct size. The splined end is supposed to slide past the first set of male splines and onto the second set of splines on the box. This was impossible until someone counter bores the shaft hole to a larger diameter than the bottom of the splines. I also had to shorten the shaft by one quarter inch to make sure nothing would bind. CCP admitted they had made a bad batch of rag joint extensions but no compensation or corrected rag joint was offered.

I put the 400 box in my 69 nova and the steering was fine as long as the front tires were off the ground but when I lowered the car the steering got stiff and the wheel would not turn smooth. Then it started to steer on its own back the left. This is the second box from CPP, the first one was way worse as it would barely turn as all. I have a good ASE mechanic that did the install with me. HELP