Military Lightweight Forum

Hi getting a bit of play at steering wheel end of column, is this a bush or bearing replacement? If so any suggestions on where to source, is it the same as a civvie version? How to change / replace?
Many thanks in advance......
Paul

There is some variation in the columns, but broadly they are the same as civilian ones on the later vehicles. Not all parts are interchangeable and some columns are longer or the boxes have different ratios.

Sounds like your top bearing has failed which is a common one. On Series 3 columns it is theoretically feasible to remove the outer column tube without disturbing the steering box itself. The outer column being held in place by a pinch bolt. If however you have a 2A column in there (quite possible on a LWT), its a case of disturbing the fixings and sealing where the column bolts to the box. Removal of the top column roller race is almost impossible with the inner column in place. The Series 3 Workshop Manual shows the process quite clearly.

Meant to add...
Once the column is out, all it needs is a broom handle or an old track rod down the tube to knock the top bearing out.
Word of advice - try if at all possible to only get a Genuine Parts bearing. Many after market ones are a poor fit. Blanchards have supplied me with a few good ones to date, but avoid anything that isn't an original part. The top bearing is a bit exposed, but a bit of grease in the rollers is useful.

Ref the broom stick trick to remove the top bearing beware the broom may get stuck! The other method is to use a large socket (32mm in my case) that will fit over the end of the column with clearance for the bearing to be pulled out with a nut and bolt. I used a socket of the same outer diameter as the column tube inner with a coach bolt through it and then wound it out against a large washer on the 32mm socket. It was quite tight.

Thanks for the replies guys. Will try and track down a bearing........