Hi everyone

I picked up an 85 T/A recently with what I believe to be 57000 miles all stock LG4 engine and auto trans. I was wondering how tight should the steering wheel feel as far as turning effort goes? In the past I have driven a 79 Firebird, and 2 different 81 Z28's and it seemed like the steering effort in those cars was much lighter than my T/A. Did they put a higher effort steering box in third gens, or is my power steering maybe not working correctly?

 

Welcome to TGO, jso.

Yes, some cars were equipped with higher effort boxes. i assume the 'Bird and Camaro boxes were generally similar:

Here's some general info (I'd like to give credit, but I don't recall where I found the info):

• “WS” – 1982-1992 Camaro – 12.7:1 ratio (just like your Z/28, this may be the box that you Z originally had).

• “XH” – 1985-1992 Camaro – 12.7:1 ratio (this box was also installed on Z/28’s and other high performance Camaros; it has slightly more steering effort required than the WS box.) NOTE – I believe this box was used on cars originally equipped with 16” wheels

• “WN” – 1982-1985 Camaro – 14.1 ratio

• “WP” – 1982-1985 Camaro – 13:1-15:1 variable ratio (used in Berlinettas, least steering effort required of all third gen. Camaro steering boxes)

• “JL” – 1986-1992 Camaro – 14.1 ratio (base Camaro steering box)

JamesC