I have a 1998 RCSB C1500 that I dearly love. I bought it with a blown engine. Once the new engine was installed (with blah, blah, blah, blah) it sounded like a WWII bomber and was black so it seemed appropriate to refer to it as the Night Bomber; dark and a bit noisy. Loved it so much I lowered it with a DJM (blah, blah, blah, blah). The love increased…
It is my third RCSB GMT400. Seems I am hooked also.
My Simple EVO Steering-Feel Modification
Some have chosen to disconnect their EVO plug on the back of their power steering pump for various valid reasons. I did not want to do that because it results in maximum hydraulic boost and a light steering feel at all times. I was hoping to make the steering-feel adjustable while driving instead. A potentiometer was mounted under the dash that can be turned to dial in a heavy, medium or light feel appropriate for the driving I am doing. Heavy for extended duration cruising speeds near 100 mph (160 km/h) or a light feel for in a parking lot if I choose.
Just kidding about the cruising speeds. My wife rolls her eyes at my jokes too…
I can't remember who had the idea to put that mounting strip under the steering column. Thank-you and much respect.
What you will need for this project:
- A 0-250 ohm potentiometer
- An EVO Valve Connector from a donor vehicle (optional)
- Some single conductor wire of different colors
- Black plastic “armour” to protect your new conductors and to make your installation look factory
Here is your circuit schematic:
I did not want to cut into my existing circuit for a plug to connect to the power steering output valve so I got one off of a donor truck. I left my existing EVO circuit unmodified. The original power steering pump EVO plug is supported and tied out of the way leaving me more options later. So far I have detected no digital trouble codes but if I do I will likely plug my original power steering EVO connector into a donor valve so the EVO module can see current flow through the solenoid and stays happy.
Does it work…? Yes!
The maximum LIGHT feel is a bit lighter than I would like while at speed but it is nice and light in a parking lot. The maximum HEAVY feel is a bit too much effort in a parking lot but is solid at speed. Normally, the dial is set somewhere in the heavy range and then I concentrate on the road.
It was an interesting and satisfying project with obvious and adjustable results.