There really is no lower bearing/bushing, but rather a plastic collar/rubber seal to keep out dirt/dust....... Also, there is another nylon/plastic collar that supports the inner tube, between the outer column and inner tube, approx 3 inches up from the bottom, where back up switch is secured........ The only bearing is the upper, which is just below the turn signal assembly, supports the upper shaft, the lower shaft/rag joint is supported by it being connected to the steering box shaft........ Link below is what I did to replace the rag joint and install a true bearing to support the lower shaft..... More pictures on page 831 and 832....... http://mmb.maverick.to/threads/what-did-you-do-to-your-maverick-or-comet-today.75605/page-831 David There is a readily available collar/bearing that can be used in our Mav/Comet column, unfortunately the eBay item that was in above link is no longer working, as soon as I find an updated one, will post it for you.......it is a standard kit for many early Fords....... I think this is the one.......... https://www.ebay.com/itm/385517135136
If that will work I'll go that way. I have a nylon bushing that came in a lot from AJE but like most of the other parts it doesn't fit. I will say that my column doesn't have that plastic sleeve. Only the rubber seal.
I cut off 3" from the inner column/tube, allows enough room to install that eBay collar/sleeve and the OEM nylon/plastic collar that supports the inner column/tube still remains. The new bearing can still be used with the original rag joint, but I gather that you have upgraded to something else??? You mentioned AJE........ David
Id kind of consider it a downgrade at this point. But, I have the Colt 65 kit with a steering rack. I have a flange adapter that bolts in place of the rag joint that I was going to use. Can the tube that has the shift arm be removed?
If you are referring to the Inner Column/Tube, I believe it can be removed, but you may or may not have to do some mods at the upper end of the steering? Once you removed the steering column and disassemble, you will be able to see if it is a straight forward removal of the inner column/tube. Have fun! David
Dug out my steering column from my 71 Comet GT, pictures of the outer and inner columns, yes the inner column can be removed, but I can not remember what attached to to upper part of the inner column, where you see the tab/bolt...... David
I need to measure my tube to confirm that bearing will work. It's listed for an f150. Thanks for the info. Will the bearing fit in the smaller inner tube?
That bearing/sleeve should work, as it is for 2.125" (2 1/8") column with .750" (3/4") shaft, which is same size as many older Fords, including our Mav/Comet and no it will not fit the inner column/tube. It was also the lowest price I could find. David
