TRZ Motorsports GM Manual Rack and Pinion Conversion Kit - Factory Spindles (1978 - 1988 Chevy Malibu - G-Body) - 319-3
Manual Rack & Pinion Conversion for Factory Spindle G-Body (78 - 88 Malibu)
The TRZ Motorsports GM Manual Rack and Pinion Conversion Kit is engineered to dramatically sharpen steering response on 1978 - 1988 Chevy Malibu G-Body platforms running factory or factory-style aftermarket spindles. By replacing the large, sluggish OEM steering system with a custom-narrowed Pinto-style manual rack, this kit reduces front-end weight, tightens steering feel, and delivers better stability and geometry control - ideal for drag racing, Pro Street, or aggressive street builds.
This system is not bolt-in. Installation requires cutting, welding, and fabrication to properly position the rack and ensure optimal Ackermann, toe adjustment, and bump-steer correction. TRZ strongly recommends chassis-shop installation for best results.
The conversion includes an adjustable bump-steer / tie-rod adjuster kit, rack clamp and mounting plate, a 3/4" chrome-moly steering shaft with support brace, and three chrome-moly U-joints (one 9/16" - 26 spline to 3/4" joint plus two 3/4" × 3/4" smooth joints). Billet aluminum steering arms are included where applicable for supported GM platforms.
Spindle Notes
Select the correct spindle style before purchasing:
- Factory / Non-TRZ Drop Spindles: Includes Summit, Belltech, and similar aftermarket spindles that maintain factory-type steering geometry.
- TRZ Drop Spindles: Require a different tie-rod adjuster length to properly correct toe and minimize bump-steer. This version (319-3) is for factory-style spindles only.
Performance Features
- Manual rack conversion for 1978 - 1988 Chevy Malibu G-Body
- Narrowed Pinto-style rack engineered for G-Body chassis width
- Adjustable bump-steer and tie-rod adjuster kit
- Rack clamp and mounting plate included
- 3/4" chrome-moly steering shaft with brace
- (3) chrome-moly U-joints: 9/16" - 26 spline + two 3/4" smooth
- Billet aluminum steering arms included where applicable
- Requires cutting and welding - professional install recommended
Quick Specs
- Application: 1978 - 1988 Chevy Malibu (G-Body)
- Spindles: Factory & factory-style aftermarket
- Steering Rack: Narrowed Pinto-style manual
- Construction: Chrome-moly shaft & U-joints; billet aluminum arms
- Installation: Fabrication required
- Part Number: 319-3
Fitment
- 1978 Chevrolet Malibu
- 1979 Chevrolet Malibu
- 1980 Chevrolet Malibu
- 1981 Chevrolet Malibu
- 1982 Chevrolet Malibu
- 1983 Chevrolet Malibu
- 1984 Chevrolet Malibu
- 1985 Chevrolet Malibu
- 1986 Chevrolet Malibu
- 1987 Chevrolet Malibu
- 1988 Chevrolet Malibu
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a bolt-in rack conversion?
No. This kit requires cutting, welding, and fabrication to correctly mount the rack and align steering geometry.
Can this kit be used with TRZ drop spindles?
No. TRZ drop spindles require a different tie-rod adjuster length. This kit is designed for factory or factory-style spindles only.
Why Buy from Beefcake Racing?
Beefcake Racing is an authorized TRZ Motorsports dealer providing fast shipping, genuine components, and expert setup advice for G-Body steering upgrades. Reach us at sales@beefcakeracing.com or call 1-855-827-7223 for support.
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