Well in one of those working to fast moments, I removed the old steering column bearing without measuring where the old one was. Is there a certain distance that this has to be located inside the "column"? thanks

 

I can't believe this one stumped the masters! lol This bearing is located in the "outer" tube/column that goes around the steering shaft. it doesn't look like it makes contact with the shaft at all, does the wheel or ???

 

C = F1:

3517 is the bearing (21A-3517), 3518 is the bearing sleeve (21A-3518), 3520 is the bearing's spring, but it's not listed for 1948.

 

As I recall, there is something inside the tube that forms a seat for the race. I have column shift, so it's different than yours, but can you feel a lip inside? There has to be something because the race would just fall to the bottom of the tube if there weren't.

The inner part of the bearing fits tight on the shaft, the outer doesn't touch it.

 

The bearing and race is a one piece assembly. If the race was a separate part, there would be a basic part number shown for it in these two pics (posts #1 & #3).

 

Can anyone help me with how these are inserted into the steering column "tube" I purchased the plastic piece from lmc but I had an original piece. It all came out at once and I have no clue. Thanks

 

Since you have the metal sleeve, you don't really need the plastic one. I believe the plastic one is a part number from the 1960's and supercedes the older part. Lube the bearing a bit and install it into the top of the tube. It will stop when it hits a small step in the tube.

 

So drop it down the tube like in pic #1, then follow it with the metal sleeve cone side down?

 

Yes, just like what's pictured in post #3. - Bob

 

The 1948-54 Ford Truck Chassis Parts Catalog shows 21A-3520 Spring (Steering Column Upper Bearing) for model years 48-49 (.78" I.D. - 1" long) - Bob

 

so just like this... slide the greased bearing straight down the "tube"
until it catches the notch and then this metal cone down on top and inside of that. all of these of course having been slid over the steering shaft. Thanks. Obviously take more pics next time!!!

 

As I recall, my '52 also has one...

 

Yes, you probably already have it together by now. Put the spring on just before installing the steering wheel. - Bob

Ross: According to the manual I have, the dimensions for the spring and sleeve were changed slightly for the '50-'52 models.