Steering Column Bearing

[ZanettiZA]

Hi,

Could anyone please describe the procedure for replacing the Bearing marked item No. 4 in the attached image.

Thanks!

[Huib]

Why would you want to replace it? I have never seen one gone bad.
If I remember correctly for the S2 it is straight froward. Take the steering wheel off and you get to the bearing.

[ZanettiZA]

Hi Huib,

Well my assumption is that the bearing is worn because I have movement when the steering wheel is off, that is to say, I can move the column up, down, left and right in a circular motion if that makes sense. The original wheel is fine but ONLY when the round plastic fitting (item on far left of the image just to the right of No. 24) is in place.

[ncundy]

At least one of the bearings (there are two,one top and one bottom) is difficult to get out without damaging the outer cage. The cages are quite thin and easy to bend when removing - and as far as I know are not available any more. If you are going to take one out be careful (heat on the column maybe). Once out they are easy to take to bits (spring clip at the bottom), clean and repack. I was told recently by someone who has done this that it is possible to get the balls.

[ZanettiZA]

Hi, so I need to remove the splined column first then remove the bearings? I does sound quite obvious but I would rather err on the side of caution. My real bug is that crazy spring on the bottom of the column... I jammed my finger good and well trying to refit that once... I was hoping I wouldn't have to do it again! Having said that, I did have some difficulty removing the column, any secret to it?

[ncundy]

Don't know I'm afraid, it's along time since I did it on an S2 and the S1 is different.

[Bart Verbeek]

Removing steering column on a S2 is pretty easy:

- remove plastic column covers
- remove indicators
- remove the bolts that keeps the column to the underside dashboard
- remove the bolt on the steeringhouse (hidden behind a rubber gasket)
- pull out steering column

re-install in opposite direction

keep in mind to put the wheels in straight forward direction - easier to reassamble and to have the steeringwheel in correct position.

I think it's easier to swap column than change bearings.... havn't got a spare car/part?

have fun!

Bart

[ZanettiZA]

Thanks Bart, I do have another part but it has the same issue, any suggestions of refitting the heavy spring?

[ZanettiZA]

Any thoughts on this bearing?

[ncundy]

Clean it in Jizer or something like that (ultrasonic would be best), inspect for mechanical damage on race and balls. If no damage then polish out any surface imperfections with 1500 wet & dry. Repack with grease.

If it's damaged you will need to find a new one. It also looks as if there are a few balls missing (you may be able to get these through a bearing supplier).