The Ford Barn

JackA · 10-22-2013, 04:04 PM

Does any have a Mel Gross steering box (f-100 modified) installed and can give me an evaluation?

C4engr · 10-22-2013, 05:03 PM

I have a Mel Gross in my 31 Sedan and one made by Dave in Morgan Hill CA. In a 30 business coupe.
There is no difference between them that I experienced.. Price is the same.. Mel's delivery was next day. Can't go wrong with either..

willobs · 10-23-2013, 05:02 AM

I replaced my 29 7tooth with his unit. I think it is great and a easy install!

denis4x4 · 10-23-2013, 08:42 AM

I have two of them and they're the next best thing to power steering.

V4F · 10-23-2013, 08:56 AM

I have one in my coupe . best steering ive had !

old1928fordguy · 10-23-2013, 08:15 PM

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

I have one in all my cars.We have installed many at Berts Model A here in Denver.Mel and Randy Gross are great and the steering boxes are the best thing since sliced bread.They are great steering boxes. Phil

Kevin in NJ · 10-24-2013, 05:52 AM

Do a search.

I believe the comments from those who have had experience properly rebuilt original and F100 were the F100's were easier to move when the car was stationary. You can not tell the difference when the car is moving.

But, like I said, do a search as that is from my memory.

jhowes · 10-24-2013, 08:05 AM

It seems like a lot of money for little reward. A rebuild original works fine .
after rebuilding everything that moves in the front I found the most improvement to my ride was good tires. the old ones jumped all over the road. Jack

old1928fordguy · 10-24-2013, 08:18 AM

I can say first hand that there is a big difference both stationary and when moving with the Gross box. I steers so easily and smooth that many people driving my car seem to over steer it at first.It is almost like driving with power steering for the first time.I am writing this from my actual driving.To me it is well worth the money spent.

John LaVoy · 10-24-2013, 09:51 AM

We have one in the sedan and are very pleased with it.

Logan · 10-24-2013, 09:55 AM

I'm with the group that says get a '56 ford steering box. I've had every kind. Two tooth, seven tooth, and the '56 box. The '56 box way out performs any of them. My coupe is such a pleasure to drive because of it. In fact I get spoiled with it. When I get in my speedster I often forget how much more effort i have to put into the steering. It's not like night and day difference, but it's a hell of a lot better. My '56 I can turn with 2 fingers at a dead stop, and it steers great while driving and making corners. The wheel even turns all the way back strait without having physically turn it back while going around a corner. Some people say the '56 box is a waste if money because if everything is 100% properly rebuilt, the car will steer pretty easily. This is true, but imagine how much better the steering would be with that 100% perfectly restored front end and a '56 box

. The guy that built mine is no longer doing them, but I've heard nothing but good things about Mel gross steering boxes. I'll probably order one for my phaeton when it comes time to get to the steering.

Boston Bruce · 10-24-2013, 11:24 AM

This past spring, I installed the "Mel Gross" F100 box in my 1930 coupe. Have put over 1500 miles on it this year and I have to say the new steering box is a marked improvement over the original unit. It takes more turns of the wheel to go from one end of travel to the other. I don't know that I'd call it power steering but it is easier to steer than the original.

Randy Gross was great to deal with on this and was very helpful before and after the sale.

You have to realize though that if you're front end isn't in good shape the F100 box isn't going to help you. Fix the front end first -- after that the original box (rebuilt) may be good enough for you.

JackA · 10-24-2013, 06:11 PM

Thanks for all the assurance. I just finished installing mine from Randy, but haven't had a chance to drive it yet. The rest of my steering will have to be reworked, but I decided to do the box first as I had sooo much play, which is now gone. Randy has been very fair with me.

Ross/Kzoo · 10-24-2013, 06:48 PM

What is the cost of the Mel Gross steering box?

Charlie Stephens · 10-24-2013, 07:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ross/Kzoo

What is the cost of the Mel Gross steering box?

That sounds like a good question for Mel, [email protected], (714) 292-8660 / (323) 728-5712

Charlie Stephens

Ross/Kzoo · 10-24-2013, 07:25 PM

I think it would be nice to know if we are talking $300,$1300 or $3,000 for the box. I don't think that it needs to be a secret.

If it was quite reasonable it may be worth considering. I don't have bottomless pockets.

Charlie Stephens · 10-24-2013, 07:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ross/Kzoo

I think it would be nice to know if we are talking $300,$1300 or $3,000 for the box. I don't think that it needs to be a secret.

If it was quite reasonable it may be worth considering. I don't have bottomless pockets.

I agree it would be nice to know and would appreciate it if you would post what you find out after you call Mel. I think it is between $300 and $1300 but there are a lot of variables. He will probably want to know if you have a truck box core and other trivia.

Charlie Stephens

Ross/Kzoo · 10-25-2013, 03:42 PM

Can anyone give a price range what Mel charges for the steering including the core charge. This is for a 28-29 if that makes any difference.

CarlG · 10-25-2013, 04:10 PM

This is what Mel has to say about this: (as posted previously in the Swap Meet)

Prices vary for 1928-29 and 1930-31. For more info, please include the year of your vehicle. Pictures and "Model A Times" article available upon request. Email us at [email protected] or call us at (714) 292-8660 / (323) 728-5712

Why not just eMail or phone him and ask.

JackA · 10-25-2013, 04:21 PM

I don't remember the exact numbers, but approx. $1,000 initial cost plus $60 if you need a 54 inch horn rod. You cut the shaft and shaft housing and send it back $200. A bit more than the parts suppliers, but you can get it right away, they want yours upfront. Worth it to me, plus you get new chrome levers and light switch. Fits the existing holes. but you do need to enlarge the sector hole slightly.

10-22-2013, 04:04 PM	#1
JackA Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: Orlando, FL / St. Stephen, NB Posts: 195	Mel Gross steering Does any have a Mel Gross steering box (f-100 modified) installed and can give me an evaluation?

10-22-2013, 05:03 PM	#2
C4engr Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2011 Location: San Jose CA Posts: 113	Re: Mel Gross steering I have a Mel Gross in my 31 Sedan and one made by Dave in Morgan Hill CA. In a 30 business coupe. There is no difference between them that I experienced.. Price is the same.. Mel's delivery was next day. Can't go wrong with either..

10-23-2013, 05:02 AM	#3
willobs Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: SW Fla Posts: 202	Re: Mel Gross steering I replaced my 29 7tooth with his unit. I think it is great and a easy install!

10-23-2013, 08:42 AM	#4
denis4x4 Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Durango CO Posts: 1,309	Re: Mel Gross steering I have two of them and they're the next best thing to power steering.

10-23-2013, 08:56 AM	#5
V4F Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: ca. Posts: 2,522	Re: Mel Gross steering I have one in my coupe . best steering ive had ! __________________ V4f

10-23-2013, 08:15 PM	#6
old1928fordguy Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Denver Posts: 106	Re: Mel Gross steering Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) I have one in all my cars.We have installed many at Berts Model A here in Denver.Mel and Randy Gross are great and the steering boxes are the best thing since sliced bread.They are great steering boxes. Phil

10-24-2013, 05:52 AM	#7
Kevin in NJ Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: South East NJ Posts: 3,398	Re: Mel Gross steering Do a search. I believe the comments from those who have had experience properly rebuilt original and F100 were the F100's were easier to move when the car was stationary. You can not tell the difference when the car is moving. But, like I said, do a search as that is from my memory.

10-24-2013, 08:05 AM	#8
jhowes Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: upstate NY near Mass border Posts: 789	Re: Mel Gross steering It seems like a lot of money for little reward. A rebuild original works fine . after rebuilding everything that moves in the front I found the most improvement to my ride was good tires. the old ones jumped all over the road. Jack

10-24-2013, 08:18 AM	#9
old1928fordguy Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Denver Posts: 106	Re: Mel Gross steering I can say first hand that there is a big difference both stationary and when moving with the Gross box. I steers so easily and smooth that many people driving my car seem to over steer it at first.It is almost like driving with power steering for the first time.I am writing this from my actual driving.To me it is well worth the money spent.

10-24-2013, 09:51 AM	#10
John LaVoy Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Rocklin, CA Posts: 1,219	Re: Mel Gross steering We have one in the sedan and are very pleased with it.

10-24-2013, 09:55 AM	#11
Logan Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Fort Worth, Texas Posts: 1,055	Re: Mel Gross steering I'm with the group that says get a '56 ford steering box. I've had every kind. Two tooth, seven tooth, and the '56 box. The '56 box way out performs any of them. My coupe is such a pleasure to drive because of it. In fact I get spoiled with it. When I get in my speedster I often forget how much more effort i have to put into the steering. It's not like night and day difference, but it's a hell of a lot better. My '56 I can turn with 2 fingers at a dead stop, and it steers great while driving and making corners. The wheel even turns all the way back strait without having physically turn it back while going around a corner. Some people say the '56 box is a waste if money because if everything is 100% properly rebuilt, the car will steer pretty easily. This is true, but imagine how much better the steering would be with that 100% perfectly restored front end and a '56 box . The guy that built mine is no longer doing them, but I've heard nothing but good things about Mel gross steering boxes. I'll probably order one for my phaeton when it comes time to get to the steering. __________________ Cowtown A's

10-24-2013, 11:24 AM	#12
Boston Bruce Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Maine and SC Posts: 205	Re: Mel Gross steering This past spring, I installed the "Mel Gross" F100 box in my 1930 coupe. Have put over 1500 miles on it this year and I have to say the new steering box is a marked improvement over the original unit. It takes more turns of the wheel to go from one end of travel to the other. I don't know that I'd call it power steering but it is easier to steer than the original. Randy Gross was great to deal with on this and was very helpful before and after the sale. You have to realize though that if you're front end isn't in good shape the F100 box isn't going to help you. Fix the front end first -- after that the original box (rebuilt) may be good enough for you.

10-24-2013, 06:11 PM	#13
JackA Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: Orlando, FL / St. Stephen, NB Posts: 195	Re: Mel Gross steering Thanks for all the assurance. I just finished installing mine from Randy, but haven't had a chance to drive it yet. The rest of my steering will have to be reworked, but I decided to do the box first as I had sooo much play, which is now gone. Randy has been very fair with me.

10-24-2013, 06:48 PM	#14
Ross/Kzoo Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Richland Mi. Posts: 1,172	Re: Mel Gross steering What is the cost of the Mel Gross steering box?

10-24-2013, 07:25 PM	#16
Ross/Kzoo Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Richland Mi. Posts: 1,172	Re: Mel Gross steering I think it would be nice to know if we are talking $300,$1300 or $3,000 for the box. I don't think that it needs to be a secret. If it was quite reasonable it may be worth considering. I don't have bottomless pockets.

10-25-2013, 03:42 PM	#18
Ross/Kzoo Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Richland Mi. Posts: 1,172	Re: Mel Gross steering Can anyone give a price range what Mel charges for the steering including the core charge. This is for a 28-29 if that makes any difference.

10-25-2013, 04:10 PM	#19
CarlG Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Anchorage, Alaska Posts: 9,115	Re: Mel Gross steering This is what Mel has to say about this: (as posted previously in the Swap Meet) Prices vary for 1928-29 and 1930-31. For more info, please include the year of your vehicle. Pictures and "Model A Times" article available upon request. Email us at [email protected] or call us at (714) 292-8660 / (323) 728-5712 Why not just eMail or phone him and ask. __________________ Alaskan A's Antique Auto Mushers of Alaska Model A Ford Club of America Model A Restorers Club Antique Automobile Club of America Mullins Owner's Club Last edited by CarlG; 10-25-2013 at 04:55 PM.

10-25-2013, 04:21 PM	#20
JackA Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: Orlando, FL / St. Stephen, NB Posts: 195	Re: Mel Gross steering I don't remember the exact numbers, but approx. $1,000 initial cost plus $60 if you need a 54 inch horn rod. You cut the shaft and shaft housing and send it back $200. A bit more than the parts suppliers, but you can get it right away, they want yours upfront. Worth it to me, plus you get new chrome levers and light switch. Fits the existing holes. but you do need to enlarge the sector hole slightly.