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Of the two upper column bearings, does the bottom one need a race or does the step-up on the shaft provide the race. I've had my '85 column apart numerous times and the up and down looseness persists. It's not the bolts; all seems tight there. The slack destroys certain parts and once jammed my steering by taking-out the cancel cam (brass tore out). It seems to be a bearing issue; parts out of order or missing. Quiet desperation for weeks now. Can't find a definitive diagram.
Of the two upper column bearings, does the bottom one need a race or does the step-up on the shaft provide the race. I've had my '85 column apart numerous times and the up and down looseness persists. It's not the bolts; all seems tight there. The slack destroys certain parts and once jammed my steering by taking-out the cancel cam (brass tore out). It seems to be a bearing issue; parts out of order or missing. Quiet desperation for weeks now. Can't find a definitive diagram.
You mention "up and down" - do you mean pulling/pushing (towards/away) from you or the more customary wobble "1 o'clock to 7 o'clock"?
If the bearings in the housing are complete/missing no *****, the upper race, pre-load seat are correctly orientated, spring, cancelling cam and lock plate are installed correctly pull/push (towards/away) from you should be minimal. The upper shaft is in direct contact with the lower bearing in the housing.
Aside from the telescopic function this column assembly can be a very good guide. @ page 56 upper race and pre-load orientation is pictured. If you understand the telescopic feature, retainer etc assembly this document should be quite useful. You mention numerous times so I'd start with for sure new bearings, upper race and pre-load seat.
It appears to me that the lower bearing in the upper housing is not reaching preload. This .PDF is the best information so far. I'll digest that and get back. I've got to choose a time to disassemble cause it takes me (potentially) hours to reassemble. The column and lower switch rods are in place so it's not quite like on the bench. Thank you so much. I am awaiting my 3rd set of bearings. I have a Haynes and the web. This is the first time I've asked in a forum and it's been positive so far. Thanks.
Last edited by rat-vette nirvana; Aug 6, 2017 at 10:28 AM.
Do not trust your Haynes manual or even some of the "web stuff" over the correct Factory Service manual.
I have the manual from Haynes and it does not cover a fraction of the material in the FSM. My 1988 set has two books, one on the mechanical stuff and the second is all electrical. Without them I would be lost.
Buy them as an investment in your car, you will reap many rewards (and save a fortune)!