Steering shaft bearing

[ron19]

I've upgraded my steering box to the power steering conversion, cpp bracket kit and 75' steering box. And now I'm replacing the rag joint with a universal bearing deal, I'll show pics when I have it installed. So while I was at it, I was messing with the upper part of the column and found a set of ball bearings under the turn signal cancel plate. Anyone know what I'm talking about? I'll post pics if neccesary. Well anyway, I want to replace, but I'm not finding it in the LMC book. I only found a lower bearing, but in the book it looks too far down on the shaft to be right. Anyone have any idea's?

Thanks in advance.

[66ChevyHauler]

Tore my steering column apart recently and replaced the internals under the steering wheel. The ball bearings on you're talking about came with the new turn signal cam and wiring. It's molded into the plastic which seems to center the upper steering column shaft. I don't think you can just buy the bearing by itself as it's molded to this other part.

[Fred T]

Not all of the turns signals have the bearing built in.

For mast bearings try www.americanclassic.com

[Phildooney]

Did my bearings last year. Got a lower mast bearing and an upper mast bearing from American Classic Truck Parts . The lower bearing was part No HRN-33 at $15. The upper bearing was part No SMB64 at $17. East to fit although my steering shaft was badly worn and I had to build it up and file it down. Hope this helps you. Phil.

[ron19]

Guys, tremendous amount of help! That's why I love this board. Now I know what I need.
Thanks again!

[ron19]

When putting in the new lower mast bushing, the original (I think it was a bearing) had a spring clamped against it. When putting in the new bushing, does the spring have to be clamped against it? I think that would wear on the bushing, the open end of the spring constantly grinding on the bushing. I'm not even sure why there was a spring there, maybe the bearing needed constant pressure on it??? Anyway, if there is a good reason for the spring pressure on the bushing, I was thinking of putting a washer in between the spring and the bushing. This may prevent excess wear.

What do you guys think?

[Phildooney]

When I did my bearing change I just slid the spring and clamp up to the bearing and secured it. I didn't put any load on the spring though. Plenty of grease should stop it wearing and a small washer in between may help. I did the bearing swap over a year ago and it is not showing any signs of failing. Good luck, Phil

[ron19]

Thanks for the feedback. I think I'll do the same thing.