Power steering tanks and cylinders

The importance of a good power steering tank is often overlooked and many settle for a cheaper version. Sweet Manufacturing has spent decades perfecting our power steering tanks to ensure that your fluid doesn’t cavitate and cause premature pump failure. When you source your racing parts from Sweet Manufacturing, you can be confident you’re receiving the industry’s best.

Power Steering Tanks

How a Power Steering Tank Functions in Racing Applications

In high-performance racing environments, power steering tanks serve as the critical foundation of your vehicle’s power steering system, ensuring consistent performance under extreme conditions. The power steering tank supplies hydraulic fluid to the power steering pump through the fluid feed hose, creating the flow necessary for responsive steering control at racing speeds. The system operates through a continuous cycle where the tank stores power steering fluid in a readily accessible reservoir.  

We were the first and only steering manufacturer to offer a pressurized tank that helps force the fluid to the pump to extend its life. There is a constant flow of fluid through the tank and steering system. When there is resistance to this, flow pressure is generated. This pressurized fluid multiplies the force applied to your steering input, allowing for significantly lighter steering effort, improved response times, and enhanced safety and control.

Power Steering Tank Sizes

Our power steering tanks are available in multiple sizes to accommodate different racing applications and installation requirements. Our 5-inch, 6-inch Sprint, and 7-inch configurations each offer specific advantages for different racing scenarios.

5-Inch Tanks

These smaller tanks provide adequate fluid capacity for most vehicles while minimizing weight and installation complexity. This compact design is ideal for racing vehicles with limited engine bay space or weight-sensitive applications where every ounce matters.

6-Inch tanks

These tanks are designed specifically for our Sweet Sprint Car Steering Box. They provide the perfect amount of fluid for a Sprint application and will mount directly to the steering box. 

7-Inch tanks

These large tanks excel in preventing fluid aeration and reducing heat. 

Many teams and racers are on the cutting edge of suspension technology. That is creating more load on all of the steering components, which can lead to heat in the fluid. This can be corrected by using a 7-inch tank in the system and a Sweet Manufacturing power steering cooler. All of our coolers come with the necessary hardware to mount and should be plumbed into the return line of the system.

Reservoir Brackets & Hardware

Proper mounting is essential for power steering tank performance and safety in racing applications. Our comprehensive selection of hardware ensures secure installation across various vehicle configurations and racing requirements.

Bolt-On Tank Bracket

Engineered for permanent installation, this reservoir bracket provides maximum security and can be conveniently mounted on the firewell.

Clamp-on Tank Bracket

These clamp brackets maintain secure tank positioning while offering the flexibility to adjust or relocate the tank as needed.

Tank Caps

Designed for racing applications, these specialized caps feature secure sealing and safety requirements.

Choosing Pressurized Reservoirs from Sweet Manufacturing for Peak Performance

Power steering tanks from Sweet Manufacturing represent the pinnacle of racing steering system technology, offering significant performance advantages over standard atmospheric tanks. Our American-made reservoirs and hardware are made from high-quality products to meet high racing standards with ease. To learn more about our power steering tanks and other industry-leading race car products, reach out to our expert team.

FAQs

How full should your power steering reservoir be?

Your reservoir should always be full enough to completely submerge the return port. It is recommended to have at least 2 inches of fluid above the return to prevent fluid aeration.

What happens if the power steering reservoir is empty?

If there is no fluid in the power steering tank, steering becomes much more difficult and there might be a whining or groaning sound. Driving without power steering fluid will damage the power steering system, which might overheat or fail.

How does a power steering tank improve safety in racing?

By ensuring consistent steering assistance, the tank allows drivers to maintain precise control at high speeds and during aggressive maneuvers. Lighter steering effort reduces driver fatigue, allowing better focus on racing strategy and quicker reaction times in emergency situations.

How often should I change the fluid in racing applications?

Racing applications require more frequent fluid changes than street use due to higher operating temperatures and stress. Follow your fluid manufacturer’s recommendations, but typically every race season or when the fluid shows signs of degradation.

What maintenance is required for racing power steering tanks?

Regular inspection of mounting hardware, checking fluid levels and condition, ensuring cap sealing integrity, and verifying all connections remain secure. Racing environments demand more frequent maintenance intervals than street applications.

What type of fluid should I use in racing applications?

Use high-quality power steering fluid specifically designed for racing applications. These fluids typically offer better heat resistance and maintain viscosity under extreme temperatures generated during racing.