Remove Old Steering Column Bushing/Bearing ?

[Paulporsche]

I developed a little vertical (not in and out) play in the steering wheel. After removing the wheel and clips, I don't see a deteriorated plastic bushing, I just see steel. This makes me think I may have replaced the original with the 928 version , probably 20 yrs ago or more.

The problem is, I don't have any plastic to remove in order to push on the Mitch Leland bushing. There is only steel, and not enough space visible for any plastic to be.

Can I merely push the old bearing down the shaft or do I need to remove it before installing the new bushing?

Will pushing on the new bushing push the old bearing down far enough?

If not, what is the best way to remove the old? Do I drill some holes and try to pick it out?

Thanks.

[john walker's workshop]

The 928 sleeve has a lip you can pry under to work it outward. Most just slipped in with a couple light taps. To replace the bearing, you have to remove the whole upper housing. not an easy job, so best to avoid that. I've seen a few steering shafts worn from rotating for years in that steel bushing, so check that.

[Paulporsche]

See my other thread for my erroneous attempt to remove the bearing before I realized I just needed to replace the thin metal 928 sleeve with Mitch's bushing.