when i got my HLX recently i could swear that the power steering seemed to have less assistance. it feels so much more sure of itself when cornering at speed, the steering was the worse thing on my 1.6sx, way too easy to turn. i knew i wasnt crazy, and now i've finally found some proof that there is a difference. i took this from fiatboo;
""The Fiat Bravo and Fiat Brava use two different steering configurations. All versions have rack and pinion power steering as standard; but it is available in two settings according to the version ordered.
Its specifications are:
ratio: 47.3 mmlwheel turn
wheel turns: 3 for a total run of 142 mm with the 1.4 12v, 1.6 16v, 1.8 16v.
servo ratio of 4.2 Nm. This is the effort applied to the control shaft of the power steering valve - directly proportional to the pressure on the steering wheel - with system pressure of 4 MN/rn2. To boost the sporty feel of the Fiat Bravo 1.8 HLX, the servo ratio has been increased to 5.2 Nm (nominal)
effort on the steering wheel: 0.2 kgm from a standing start to 0.5 kgm at speed
turning circle: 10.4 m.""
so my crazy idea to adjust the relief valve on my 1.6SX power steering pump has already been done by fiat for the 1.8HLX model. obviously this spells doom for my plan to sell a power steering mod on ebay, but it does mean everyone can easily upgrade their power steering to HLX spec, which is much safer and more satisfying to drive.
what are you waiting for, get to a scrapyard now!!
""The Fiat Bravo and Fiat Brava use two different steering configurations. All versions have rack and pinion power steering as standard; but it is available in two settings according to the version ordered.
Its specifications are:
ratio: 47.3 mmlwheel turn
wheel turns: 3 for a total run of 142 mm with the 1.4 12v, 1.6 16v, 1.8 16v.
servo ratio of 4.2 Nm. This is the effort applied to the control shaft of the power steering valve - directly proportional to the pressure on the steering wheel - with system pressure of 4 MN/rn2. To boost the sporty feel of the Fiat Bravo 1.8 HLX, the servo ratio has been increased to 5.2 Nm (nominal)
effort on the steering wheel: 0.2 kgm from a standing start to 0.5 kgm at speed
turning circle: 10.4 m.""
so my crazy idea to adjust the relief valve on my 1.6SX power steering pump has already been done by fiat for the 1.8HLX model. obviously this spells doom for my plan to sell a power steering mod on ebay, but it does mean everyone can easily upgrade their power steering to HLX spec, which is much safer and more satisfying to drive.
what are you waiting for, get to a scrapyard now!!
