Steering column bearings

[Acknud]

I need help. I think one of my bearings in my 1969 steering column went out. The steering wheel now has a lot of slop and will move around. The column itself is tight but the inner shaft moves. Under the hood I can pull the inner shaft back and forth. I cannot find anything on how to replace these bearings. Does anyone any instructions on this or can guide me where I can get some?
Hopefully I can fix this without pulling the column. I found this kit at Tom's but I don't know how to replace it:

https://www.tomsbroncoparts.com/product/66-73-column-bearing-kit-new

Thanks.

 

[bronkenn]

That kit will work but you need to pull the steering shaft out to install it. If your shaft moves back and forth you can try to tighten it up by loosening the retainer clamp on the shaft at the base of the column in the engine compartment and pushing it tighter to the lower bearing. Good luck, Ken

 

[DirtDonk]

That clamp just mentioned may actually have slipped down, creating the looseness.
But while checking and adjusting it, make sure that the old bearings are still in place while you're down there inspecting things.

If they are, you can have someone push gently down on the steering wheel (not too hard) while you push up on the clamp and tighten it down.

If there is any doubt about the quality of your existing parts though, get the new ones. They're not that expensive and should make things nice and smooth.
If you're in a position to have your Bronco down for a little extra time, you can actually pull it apart to inspect the stuff before buying the new stuff. If it's all good and just needed cleaning, re-greasing and re-adjusting, you're good to go.
But if the parts are worn, the new ones will take care of you.

Paul

 

[Rustytruck]

Might want to watch these videos before jumping into the column.

https://www.wildhorses4x4.com/produ...witch_7477yr/Bronco_Stock_Column_Parts#videos

 

[Acknud]

I tightened up everything I could in the column. The bearings seem ok. I made sure the nuts under the steering wheel were tight as well. There is still a little up and down give but it is not as bad. On the downside, now my turn signals no longer work. I looked at the turn signal switch and all the wires and everything seemed ok. It's always something!