Steering column Bearing and gearbox bushes

[De Tomaso]

I seem to remember hearing, some time ago, about an upgraded steering column bearing (better than the standard replacement), as well as improved gearbox remote bushes that outperform the stock versions.

Does anyone here know anything about either of these and have links to a source?

Many thanks.

[adam quantrill]

Yes there was and I bought one but still haven't fitted it.

[mrzigazaga]

adam quantrill said:

Yes there was and I bought one but still haven't fitted it.

Any part numbers Adam?

[Wedg1e]

For the column I just used a 2-bolt pressed-steel flange bearing - the bearing is trapped between two plates when you bolt it in so compensating for misalignment of the column axis in relation to the footwell wall.
I had to use a 17mm bore bearing and sleeve it down to the SD1's column of 14mm - 14 isn't a standard bearing bore size.

Like this, but I can't guarantee this particular one will be right for you:

https://www.bearingboys.co.uk/SLFL-Pressed-Steel-2...

The gearshift extension bushes are (IMHO) better replaced with acetal or similar, it's not like you need the vibration damping of the rubber ones. I just knocked some up on the lathe. Makes the shift action a bit sharper and stops the housing hitting the propshaft flange when you go for 2nd or 4th.

[De Tomaso]

Thanks for this info. Maybe worth my while having a word with Leigh on those gearbox mounts as that sounds like a nice little upgrade.

[BlueWedgy]

Here you go not wanting to blow someones trumpet

http://www.wedgeneering.co.uk/Front%20suspension,%...

Edited by BlueWedgy on Wednesday 19th November 12:44

[SLB]

I've done the steering column bearing change on a couple of cars but a long time ago. Back then I used a bearing from RS Components which had a grub screw similar to that in the photos but it ended-up only being accessible from the footwell side. It's important to use a strong thread lock and do it up tight as if it shakes loose you really notice it and it's tricky getting your head down there to do it up again. I also added a sheet of rubber over the shaft and bearing on the wheelarch side to keep the dirt and wet out of the bearing.

[Wedg1e]

SLB said:

I've done the steering column bearing change on a couple of cars but a long time ago. Back then I used a bearing from RS Components which had a grub screw similar to that in the photos but it ended-up only being accessible from the footwell side. It's important to use a strong thread lock and do it up tight as if it shakes loose you really notice it and it's tricky getting your head down there to do it up again. I also added a sheet of rubber over the shaft and bearing on the wheelarch side to keep the dirt and wet out of the bearing.

If I remember correctly (and it was a long time ago!) I pulled the telescopic section of the column out into the wheel well, tightened the grubscrew then pushed the column back in until the bearing found its seat on the rearward flange, then dropped the forward flange on and bolted up. Of course you need arms like Mr. Tickle to hold the bolt and turn the nut...