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A few weeks ago while I was installing hydroboost, I installed a new DRB Fab lower steering column bearing. My old factory bearing was shot, so this was a big improvement. But I still had a bit of slop at the upper bearing which is just below the turn signal switch. I anticipated this, and already had a new OEM type upper bearing. I installed it, but the little bit of slop was still there. It wasn't much, but definitely enough to feel it.
The gap was between the inner bearing race and the steering shaft. Since my steering column is removed for the wiring harness installation, I thought about machining the upper shaft down, and pressing on a collar to machine down to better fit the bearing. Then I had an idiot light bulb moment. I used an automatic center punch to make eight evenly spaced marks around the shaft, at the bearing register. Then I slipped the bearing over it to check the fit. Pulled the bearing off, made the marks a little more pronounced, and checked fit again. I repeated this a few times until there was no bearing slop. You could do this with a regular center punch and hammer, but an automatic center punch is nice because you can adjust it as you go. Can't wait to feel the difference while I'm driving the truck.
I am considering machining a delrin cup to replace that silly rubber thing that goes around the circumference of the bearing.
This is the DRB Fab lower bearing. Mine fit snug, but if it was loose, it could get the same center punch fix.
I would say the rubber outer ring on the upper bearing is to stop vibration from outer column to the shaft & wheel to your hands.
Dave ----
Well yeah. But that rubber thingy contacts the housing and the outer race. It doesn't compensate for space between the shaft and inner race. If there's a gap between the shaft and the inner race, such as mine, then there's gonna be slop.
Well yeah. But that rubber thingy contacts the housing and the outer race. It doesn't compensate for space between the shaft and inner race. If there's a gap between the shaft and the inner race, such as mine, then there's gonna be slop.
True but you said
I am considering machining a delrin cup to replace that silly rubber thing that goes around the circumference of the bearing.
and I think that would be a little harder and transfer the vibrations and why I brought it up.
That is also why a rubber rag joint is used down at the box, vibration.
Dave ----
and I think that would be a little harder and transfer the vibrations and why I brought it up.
That is also why a rubber rag joint is used down at the box, vibration.
Dave ----
Ahh I see. You're right, delrin would be much stiffer. No deflection at all in that application. That's why I'm considering it. I don't have a rag joint. I installed a Borgeson steering shaft.
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