[stormcrow]

What that copper sleeve is, is a 3/4 copper coupling. My plastic bushing failed and instead of going back with plastic i used a copper coupling with a cut on one side.

Been in there for around 10 years now with no problem. You can use a piece of PVC pipe to tap against the copper sleeve to drive it down equal with the bearing.

Since it's been quite some time since i did this, I can't remember if I had to shorten the length of the coupling. So, if you place the pvc sleeve over the steering wheel shaft and tap it, be careful to make sure it will go down.

It's possible that the plastic wasn't fully cleaned out before the copper sleeve was installed. My plastic bushing came out in one piece, so i didn't have any issues. Also, if you ordered a new bushing, you can compare the length to a 3/4" copper coupling length to see if they match.

Lastly if you are not satisfied with the copper sleeve being installed, you can probably take a pair of channel locks, work the sleeve back and forth while pulling up. It should come out. Make sure you put some lube between the coupling and steering wheel shaft.

As i previously stated mine has been in for around 10 years and never had an issue. Good luck.