This Looks like
one of those 'real swine' jobs but in fact turns out quite
easy.
Replacing these bushes may not
seem that important but they are a MOT failure point and
stop that nasty shudder as you spin the steering quickly.
Also a grotesque clunk can occur when trying to wear flats
on the tyres, as the universal lifts in the engine bay -
not nice.
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Here are my home made bushes, turned
from UPVC bar 1" OD and 3/4" ID just under
1/2" long.
There is a small lip on the (lower) engine bay one
for some reason, you can see it in the picture.
An original one is on the left here too. As you can
see it is a double skinned affair, real poor and breaks
up too easily to my mind.
Maybe it's supposed to?
The gap is full of grease |
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Fitting is easier than it looks
First remove the crash pad on the
steering wheel, gently because it will rip.
Then loosen the wheel nut and nearly
remove it. Now try to waggle the steering wheel off. I had
to take the bolt out of the top universal, working in the
engine bay, then take up the slack by pulling the wheel
a little, then smack the top column nut sharply with a blunt
object.
Remove said universal bolt if not
out, then take the shroud off the ignition switch. loosen
the clamping screw holding the indicator switch assy. and
pull free disconnecting at the 'cable' connectors if necessary.
Use the ignition key to release
the steering lock and the column inner will pull through
the outer conveniently knocking out the upper bush with
the lock striker.
Equally conveniently turn the steering column over and insert
it upside down to knock out the lower bush.
Gently clean any rusting in the
lower area of the inner column with some emery, clean up
and replace. Grease well your new bushes with some waterproof
grease and refit the bushes over your column top and bottom
and knock them firmly into their recesses.
Check carefully the operation of
your new assembly, after all - your life may depend upon
it and refit all removed components, taking care with the
security of both the wheel nut and the universal bolts.
Next, take a long careful
look at your work as I take no responsibility
for your safety. |