sterring wheel issue

[Rob Gold]

I have a 1983 911sc cabriolet. Haven't used it for a while, and when I drove it recently I noticed that the steering wheel column has about 1/2 play up and down.

I have never noticed this before, hoping someone could shed some light on this issue, and provide some guidance on my next step. do I need to take it to a mechanic, or is this something I can attempt to repair on my own?


thank you in advance.

Rob G.

[3.0schotrod]

Probably the steering wheel column nylon bush that has collapsed, my 79 SC just had the same issue. Easy fix, you need to buy the improved metal bush from pelican parts, think its about $15, easy to fit. Remove wheel, take off the clip, clean out as much of the broken original bush then gently knock in the new one, there is a pelican how to do it thread I think, once you have the bush you should be up and running again in about 15 mins if you have a few basic tools.

Just an FYI, I carried on driving mine for a week like it was once I confirmed the issue and understood it, so if yo uconfirm the issue is the same you can decide if you want to drive it, I dont think anything can go anywhere, it just feels a little bit strange

[Rob Gold]

Thanks for the reply, I found the article and will order the parts.

Looks like a repair I can handle.

[RSTarga]

Don't go for the metal bushing use this one
Steering Column Support Bushing (Nylon material), 911/911 Turbo (1974-89)
Part #: PEL-ML-STR

[Joe Bob]

I replaced the bushing in MY 83 cab, very easy and it was perfect afterwards.

[petercory]

Does the column or the steering wheel have 1/2" of play; if it's the column, the mounting bolts are probably loose, simply remove the Tach to tighten them. If the play is in the steering wheel then and only then do you need to replace the bushing.

[Joe Bob]

The original steering wheel bushing is plastic. If it hasn't gone yet, it will.

[uwanna]

Originally Posted by RSTarga

Don't go for the metal bushing use this one
Steering Column Support Bushing (Nylon material), 911/911 Turbo (1974-89)
Part #: PEL-ML-STR

Yes, that's the famous Mitch Leland steering bushing. Simple to install but a quite elegant fix. Install it and your problems are over for as long as you own your car.
Do a search on Mitch Leland and you will find numerous threads with "how to" tricks and info.

EDIT: here's the thread
Mitch Leland's Steering Wheel Bushing

[Rob Gold]

Replying to Peter Corey,

It feels like the entire column can move up or down 1/2 inch; how do I remove the tach to check on the bolts?

Thanks again

[Rob Gold]

I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who contributed to this post. I purchased the Leland bushing and with ipad in hand, read the instructions and removed the old bushing (it was in tiny pieces surrounding the steering column) and installed the new bushing. What a difference.

My next step is dealing with the oil leaks but that is for another post.

Rob

[DRACO A5OG]

Congrats

[petercory]

To remove the Tach, I'd recommend removing the Steering Wheel first, then see if you can grasp the rubber gasket under the black bezel and slowly pry the tack out with your fingertips (rock it from side to side). If you don't have any lick that way, start with either the Fuel or Oil Press gauge and reach behind the tach and push it out. The 2 bolts in question are below the Tach; tighten them and reverse the procedure.

I got the same bad advise about the bushing and ordered one only to find out that the column was the problem; anyone want to buy a brand new (unused) Mitch Leyland Bushing for $20, please PM me.