Steering Column Bushing Replacement-Easy Fix my @$$

[Neel]

Originally Posted by Par911

I know the slop isn't because of tires, because I recently replaced all four and got an alignment done. So should I give up on replacing the steering column bushing with the metal one. I figure there's no point in destroying it if it's not causing the slop.

Sounds like you wasted your $$ for your alignment.. Rule #1 for alignment ~You cannot align looseness.~ A competent Alignment tech would have found any looseness in his prealignment check.. Maybe a 'set the toe and let it go' shop...

[Danny_Ocean]

Originally Posted by Evans, Marv

I'd go ptrimarily with what JW suggested. This may not apply, but I remember on VW's long ago, when the front struts needed replacement, they would become unstable and when they got worse they would begin to oscillate when you got up to a certain speed. Struts may be something to consider if John's idea doesn't pan out.

I hope he resolved his problem by now, as this thread is from 2004...

[Esel Mann]

My steering wheel was doing that whole floating around in the column thing.

I pulled things apart to see that the plastic bushing insert for the upper steering column bearing was crumbling. The bearing itself was in excellent shape. So I took my time, all of 5 minutes or so in removing the plastic bushing pieces. I ordered the metal replacement bushing 928.347.739.02 from our host and installed it yesterday evening. It essentially slid right in using only my hand and no additional tools (to push it in).

I drove the car into work today and the steering wheel is now solid with no floating. There is no binding and I perceived no additional force necessary to steer.

Why Porsche went the route of a plastic versus metal bushing is beyond me.

1 project down, now on to installing an e-ram super charger for some boost in HP.

[Shadetree930]

I finally got around to replacing my bushing.

It took less than 5 minutes start to finish and it was obvious the bushing needed replacement. I did not even need a hammer to help it in,a gentle push with a screwdriver did the job.

This flotsam and jetsam around the steering column was the clear indicator it was time for replacement ....

[john walker's workshop]

i posted a while ago about steering shaft wear from metal bushings. grease those things on the inside with something like opti-moly or the grease that comes with ignition points. i've seen severe wear on 2 shafts to date.

[Esel Mann]

John, will do, and thank you for that insight which will save us a big headache down the road!

[Mitch Leland]

Par911, The factory bushing is still in place, when that bushing goes bad you'll know it. The bushing will literally crumble into little pieces and turn to dust. Your steering wheel will rotate/wobble up and down on the axis of the steering column.

Also, for a few dollars more you can have a bushing that will probably last as long as your car, it won't rattle and it's removable. You might consider this bushing: PEL-ML-STR in the Pelican Catalog.

As had been said, I would look at tie rods, wheel bearings, loose lug nuts that haven't been torque correctly. Jack up the front end and have 1 person on the steering wheel while you hold one of the front wheels. Be sure to use good floor jacks for safety...

[abisel]

The plastic bushing being talked about is actually part of the inner race of the ball bearing. The bearing can be bought from Porsche for an outrageous amount of money.

Here's some photos of the disassembled steering column.