steering wheel bearing

[justjeffk1]

what's the best way to remove the sterring wheel bearing, upper with plastic insert? thanks jeff, '79 targa

[justjeffk1]

is it true you can press on a new bearing over the old?

[jmohn]

Jeff-

When I did mine, I removed as much of the old plastic bushing as I could (used needle-nose pliars and a heavy-duty "tweezer"). Then drove the new bushing down into position (you probably won't get all of the old bushing out). Be aware you will have to "drive" the new bushing into position with a proper diameter piece of pipe (or equal) and a mallet or hammer.

Jerry M
'78 SC

[justjeffk1]

thanks, I was replacing the whole bearing

[jmohn]

Originally posted by justjeffk1
thanks, I was replacing the whole bearing

Sorry, Jeff, I misunderstood. As I understand it, what you propose is quite extensive. the column has to come out for the upper bearing to be pressed out and in (I think the early cars could have that bearing pulled and replaced while the column remained in the car). I (and most others) have no wish to pull the whole column when all we (most of us) need is a new bushing (which makes replacing the plastic bushing with the metal, 928 bushing so popular). When you ask if a new bearing can be pressed down on top of the old, I think you're confusing replacing the bushing (which can be pressed down onto the old plastic bushing) with replacing the bearing. To replace the actual bearing, I think, the old bearing must be removed. I hope you get a better answer from someone who has replaced the actual bearing.

Good luck,

Jerry M
'78 SC

[justjeffk1]

thanks, your correct, I ended up cutting out the old bearing, without removing the steering shaft, it was a good time, next time i'm sure I'll be able to just replace the bushing. Now I'm going out to replace my exchangers, from my '79 to install a pair from a '74, I can only guess how much fun this and installing a power antennea is going to be, thanks jeff