Upper steering shaft play 1969

[JFP58]

I’m getting some play in the upper steering shaft bearing when I rock the steering wheel up and down, not much side to side. Fitted two different steering wheels and get the same result. The upper bearing isn’t noisy and moves smoothly. A new bearing is expensive, so I don’t want to just throw one in there. Do these wear at the bearing ID or maybe loosen up when someone uses the steering wheel as an aid getting in and out of the car? Thanks! John

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Ok, I just realized that I’m missing the compression spring between the steering wheel and the bearing. I will order one and that should fix things.

[JFP58]

Ok, so I found the spring. This is what happens when you’re old and took your car apart over 3 years ago! MOST of the play is gone with the spring in place. I just noticed something called a support ring (69534772500) that goes between the column bearing and spring. Some sites show this part for 65-73 and others just until 68’. Will this fit my 69’? Looks like it takes up the space between the shaft and inside of the bearing.

[edmayo]

Yes, should fit your 69,has been the same since 356 days. Flat of the collar goes against the spring.

[JFP58]

Yes, should fit your 69,has been the same since 356 days. Flat of the collar goes against the spring.

Thanks Ed!

[jim amato]

Ok, so I found the spring. This is what happens when you’re old and took your car apart over 3 years ago! MOST of the play is gone with the spring in place. I just noticed something called a support ring (69534772500) that goes between the column bearing and spring. Some sites show this part for 65-73 and others just until 68’. Will this fit my 69’? Looks like it takes up the space between the shaft and inside of the bearing.

John Is this it?

[HarryD]

Here is a complete steering wheel spring and bushing configuration.

[JFP58]

Here is a complete steering wheel spring and bushing configuration.

Thanks Harry.

[JFP58]

John Is this it?

Yes Jim, that’s the spring.

[jim amato]

John, Happy to post the support ring to you, send me your mailing address in a pm, I can post it out today.

[JFP58]

John, Happy to post the support ring to you, send me your mailing address in a pm, I can post it out today.

PM sent. Thanks!