So heres the story. I have had a 1955 Chev 1/2 ton big window P/U since I was 16. (1975) Its not stock, 350 4 speed and a sun roof. I had it restored in about 1979 or 80. New paint and interior. Had some smoe put power steering in it and the steering has never worked very well. So as I got older, I quit driving it. Always going to "get it fixed". Its been 10 years since the truck has seen the road. Well its time. I am looking for a shop in the Northwest that someone could recommend that would install a new steering system. I remember back in the day hearing that a GTO front end will "bolt right up" and give a much better suspension and power steering also. Any info woill be greatly appreciated.
An IFS is a great way to go, but it is not for a novice What you are thinking of is installing an IFS (Independent Front Suspension) under the front end of your 1955 Big Window. (I have had my 57 big window short bed since 1985). It sounds like the PS conversion was one that is discussed in one of the other posts here today....? If so, then that will not worth trying to fix. What I will suggest is as follows... First, decide on a budget for your truck. What else are you planning on doing with it? Is it going to be a restoration, a "resto-rod" with modern engine, and a smooth safe ride? I spent years looking a truck mags to figure out what I wanted to do with my 57. Then I put away money and parts as I could from each pay check, until I git what I needed. The best IFS in my opinion is one built by Gary Martz Engineering, but he is is located in Pennsylvania (sorry a long ways from the Nor-west) I bought a Martz 55-59 IFS because it did not require the cutting off of the inner fender panels like the Camaro or Nova subframes do, and like a lot of the other brands of IFS' (Mustang II clones). If you wish you can send me an email or PVT Message and I will be happy to share more thoughts on this and my phone number. I love to talk trucks! 55-59TruckNut
