Steering Column Rebuild

[SlyGuy]

We are doing a rebuild on the steering column today on my '72 Challenger.  I purchased the following replacement parts ahead of time: Ignition switch, turn signal switch, turn signal lever, and what is described as a "lower column bearing". However, now that we have it apart, I don't see any kind of bearing inside the "lower" end of the tube. Do some columns have a lower bearing, and some do not? On mine there is a plastic ring of some sort at the bottom of the tube, but no bearing. And the plastic ring is much larger diameter than the shaft. Has anyone else run into this? Thanks 

[70chall440]

I've never seen a bearing in one myself, they all have had that plastic deal in the end. I know that someone was making a better "upgrade" kit to replace that plastic piece with an actual bearing, is it possible this is what you got?

[SlyGuy]

I guess it is possible that it's supposed to be an upgrade, but they sure make it sound like a factory replacement part. I'm not even going to try to post a picture of the stupid part, but if you want to see what I'm talking about go to Classic Industries site and punch in part number MW755. The more I read, it sounds like some cars had it, and some not....I think

Anyway, at the end of the day I'm just pissed at myself for not researching my column BEFORE buying parts. HATE IT WHEN I DO THAT  

[70chall440]

Well some of them may have had them and perhaps I have seen them and just don't remember. I tried looking up the part but their site won't load for some reason. Have you watch Cody's youtube videos on rebuilding a column?

[70chall440]

Out of curiosity, is that bearing like 1" in diameter or is it a larger one? There is a bearing up on the top end of the column I believe. I have the column from my Cuda that is all torn apart, I should go and look.

[SlyGuy]

Yes, the inside diameter of the bearing is aprrox 1", and it is set inside of a larger plastic piece that looks like it would fit inside of the column tube. It makes sense, but my column just doesn't have it. I'll be sending it back to Classic Industries, and paying freight and possibly a restocking fee. Geez, that torques me off. This project is expensive enough without making STUPID mistakes!

I am aware of the "upper" bearing you mentioned. Haven't decided yet if I am replacing it or not. The only place that I have found that sells it is "Detroit Muscle Technologies". On a side note, I'm glad I found their web site, because they list a ton of misc parts that I hadn't even thought of yet. And their prices seem very reasonable (at least by Mopar standards).

And yes, definitely watched Cody's videos. The only reason I felt confident enough to do it. 

[70chall440]

Ok cool, yes Detroit Muscle usually has decent parts and prices.