Loose Steering Column

[Domel]

Hi guys,

There is some looseness in the steering column of my Golf, slight play both horizontally and vertically, as if there was too big a gap between the steering column and the column tube; I can also sometimes feel this while driving (especially over bumps, as you would expect) - it's not major but annoying enough. I'm pretty certain the looseness is somewhere in the top section of the column. What could it be? Is there a bearing that potentially needs replacing? How do I go about replacing it, should that be the case? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers,
Dom

[walshydub]

I had a similar problem, you might need a new steering rack bush VW Heritage for VW parts and accessories
Having said that MK2's have collapsible steering column so it might just be a bit of play as a result of age.

[ryana89]

Have a looksy here too.
Fix Play in Steering Wheel MK2 Golf - VW Golf GTI Guides

[walshydub]

Have a looksy here too.
Fix Play in Steering Wheel MK2 Golf - VW Golf GTI Guides

How come i've never seen that website before!
Learn't most of the stuff on there by trial & error (mostly error).

[Domel]

Thanks Walshy and Ryan. Found this page you are referring to last night after posting up the question on here - I think this is what my problem is. Do you think I will need to remove the whole column out of the car (not too keen on removing the clocks, as per this guide: How to Remove MK2 Golf Steering Column - VW Golf GTI Guides) just to remove the bearing? Also, where do I get the new bearing (checked all the usual places online)?

Cheers guys!

Dom

[ryana89]

Also, where do I get the new bearing (checked all the usual places online)?

I can only imagine a local bearing supplier would be the best bet?
ECS use to carry them, but not anymore apparantly.

[Domel]

Thanks Ryan. Drove the car today trying to focus on the loose column, and actually it's not that bad (I think I'm just still used to the e30 where everything is very tight). I will probably want to look into fixing this eventually, but will probably get the car lowered first

[ryana89]

Thanks Ryan. Drove the car today trying to focus on the loose column, and actually it's not that bad (I think I'm just still used to the e30 where everything is very tight). I will probably want to look into fixing this eventually, but will probably get the car lowered first

Haha, you should hear the sounds that come from my steering column when going around/through a corner.

[Vinda76]

I've just done the top and bottom bearings on a MK1 (which I think are the same?), with the column in place. Massive difference, no play at all now. Parts are easy to get from most places in the US or UK.

[Domel]

I've just done the top and bottom bearings on a MK1 (which I think are the same?), with the column in place. Massive difference, no play at all now. Parts are easy to get from most places in the US or UK.

Thanks for the post mate! Where did you get the bearings from?

I think replacing mine would make a significant difference, too. I think everything else being pretty tight only further amplifies the steering column bearing issue.

[ryana89]

Looking at this photo, there's also an upper bearing???

[Domel]

Awesome pic, Ryan. Thanks very much for that - I think this is the bearing that's causing me issues, I can definitely feel looseness around this area (upper column). Now, how difficult do you think would it be to remove this bearing?

Also, relating to the other thread on the steering wheel spline, this picture clearly shows the large spline installed over the small.

Thanks again.

[Vinda76]

Sorry for the slow reply.

It's usually the lower bearing that goes, the plastic crumbles. I've had a look and around am not sure if the lower bearing is the same as the MK1, one of the MK2 guys should know. You can check this bearing for play by trying to wiggle the UJ at the bottom of the column.

The upper bearing is part of the aluminium housing that holds the ignition barrel etc - believe there are two types that switched over in 88/89 ish. All of these parts are available on UK or US ebay.

One thing to check first is the the allen headed bolt that holds the upper bearing housing and this can come undone.

Hope this helps

gav

[Domel]

Thanks, Gav. I checked the allen bolt and it's nice and tight. I still think it's the upper bearing that needs replacing. I will probably get both replaced once I'm ready to do it anyway. I can't find any of these parts on either US or UK eBay, though? Thanks for your help again.

[ryana89]

I keep coming back to this thread haha, I'm looking to muck around with ignition barrel replacement so this thread is relevant......anyway

GAP sells the entire lock housing


GermanAutoParts.com

Moar food for thought.