Steering Column Hole "Ovaled"

[81dmc]

Today, I had my steering column out to replace the bushing. All went smoothly until everything was back together. In short, the damn bushing popped out. After examining the hole, I found that it is "ovaled" upwards. What would be the correct way fix this? Would riveting a stainless steel plate with a properly-sized hole work?

Thanks

[DMCMW Dave]

Today, I had my steering column out to replace the bushing. All went smoothly until everything was back together. In short, the damn bushing popped out. After examining the hole, I found that it is "ovaled" upwards. What would be the correct way fix this? Would riveting a stainless steel plate with a properly-sized hole work?

Thanks

That means someone drove it a very long time with the bushing missing. Ideally you'd weld a plate over it, but in reality a good job of riveting it should be fine as long as you seal the joint as well. Lots of splash water in that area. Plate doesn't necessarily have to be stainless, as long as it's painted/sealed.

[81dmc]

Thanks Dave!

I guess that is the reason the original carpet was completely destroyed (water damaged)...

Anyways, what should the diameter be of the new hole?

[Rich_NYS]

On the same topic, is it possible to remove & replace a bushing? I installed a new one, but would like to remove it to paint the area.

[DMCMW Dave]

On the same topic, is it possible to remove & replace a bushing? I installed a new one, but would like to remove it to paint the area.

Maybe, but only if you remove the steering column and don't happen to tear the bushing on the way out. I'd mask it off.

[Rich_NYS]

Maybe, but only if you remove the steering column and don't happen to tear the bushing on the way out. I'd mask it off.


Thanks!

:thumbup: