Performax International, which has almost 25 years' experience in importing and engineering American sports vehicles, has developed a new electric-assisted power steering system for the right-hand drive Mustang that faithfully replicates the performance and feel of the left-hand drive factory original.

The first V8 Mustang fitted with the system, which comprises a rack-and-pinion steering box designed in-house by Performax and a re-programmed Electronic Control Unit, has recently achieved Federal Government Australian Design Rule approval, clearing it for road registration in all States and Territories.

The Performax system, developed at a six-figure cost, is already attracting export interest from Mustang importers in other right-hand drive countries, including South Africa.

General Manager Glenn Soper said the steering system was an example of "the Performax Difference", which set the company apart from other conversion operations.

"The Ford Mustang is a brilliant muscle car, but the introduction of electric power steering in the latest model poses a major technical problem for small or inexperienced conversion companies," Mr Soper said.

"The electric steering is integrated with the Mustang's other chassis dynamics systems, including electronic stability control, traction control, drive-by-wire throttle and a yaw sensor.

"Adapting all this to right-hand drive and retaining the vehicle's sophisticated and highly-refined driving performance is no longer just a matter of transferring mechanical parts.

"Unbelievably, we have seen some cars where the electric steering has been thrown out to accommodate a crude, old-fashioned mechanical conversion with welded parts or where conversion simply wasn't possible because of the complexity and cost.

"Performax International invested a substantial amount in developing a completely new rack-and-pinion steering that works seamlessly with the other on-board systems.

"The result is a right-hand drive Mustang that is sensational to drive - it steers exactly as it was designed to by the factory.

"This is the Performax Difference, that we have industry-leading technologies, experience and resources to achieve a thoroughly-engineered, no-compromise conversion from left- to right-hand drive.

"It satisfies not only all government standards required for road-registration, but also the subjective standards of the most demanding drivers."

Mr Soper said the approval of the Mustang steering was a timely reminder to private importers of American vehicles to consult a reputable conversion company such as Performax International before finalising their purchases.

"It's too late when the car is on the boat to find out that right-hand drive conversion is going to be too complex, too expensive or even impossible," he said.

"Performax can guide owners in making the right decisions to ensure they end up driving a dream car that meets all their expectations."

He said buyers should follow Performax International's Top 20 list of items to check for when planning a conversion -

1. Is it a well-established company with a proven history of steering conversions?
2. Is the company experienced in your particular vehicle type?
3. Is the company ISO accredited?
4. What standard of technology is being used; is it state of the art?
5. Do they use the latest computer software?
6. Are you offered a fully guided tour of their factory; does it seem high tech, well organised, clean and tidy?
7. Do they have highly qualified workers who receive ongoing training?
8. Do they produce OEM quality dash boards?
9. Is the steering full right-hand drive without any crossover components?
10. Have the steering rack and box been manufactured in accordance with OEM requirements?
11. Has the HVAC ducting been manufactured to deliver maximum air velocity?
12. Are all the A/C lines factory made; not hand bent?
13. Are you able to inspect and test-drive a fully completed vehicle?
14. Will the company back their own product (not use aftermarket warranties)?
15. Do they offer Roadside Assist Service?
16. Is the speedometer in kilometres per hour?
17. Are pedals positioned for driver comfort?
18. If power seats are fitted do they work correctly?
19. Is all lighting and tow bar (if fitted) ADR compliant?
20. Has the Australian compliance plate been fitted?

Intending buyers also can contact Performax International for a free vehicle history check. This extensive report includes information on recalls, insurance claims, accidents, genuine mileage, when the vehicle was last registered and much more.

Performax International operates from a modern factory at Gympie, near the Sunshine Coast, which is equipped with hi-tech facilities such as computer-aided design, 3D parts prototyping and injection moulding.

Work is completed to ISO 9001 Quality Assured standards, meaning its quality management system has been developed and implemented to the highest standards.

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