Re: 1937 120-c Steering Column tube
Posted by HH56 On 2021/4/13 20:42:12
I did not see much detail of the prewar column in the 35-41 parts book but on most the upper wide end below the wheel is welded to the actual column. There is what appears to be a bearing shown and one is listed so I would almost bet the column construction is similar to later columns.
The later columns must slide up into the passenger compt to come off the shaft so the steering wheel and a large compression spring needs to be removed. That also involves removing the horn wire. Later columns have a ball bearing at the top and in order to remove the column there is a concave split washer that is tight to the steering shaft which forms the inner race of the bearing. That split washer must be removed because if present the washer is so tight the column and bearing cannot push it up the shaft when you try to slide the column off. On some shafts there is also a lock ring in a groove around the shaft to further prevent the split washer from moving.
Before moving your column I would suggest taking a measurement of the distance between the bottom of the column and the steering box so you can get it back in close position. That will avoid possibly fighting to fix a different width gap between the column and wheel hub after the wheel is back on.
If there is a ball bearing on your column also suggest you take the opportunity to check its condition. Some have found the cage holding the balls to have worn or broken allowing the bearing to fall apart.
Here is a photo of the upper end of a 47 column showing the bearing and split washer. You might be able to use the photo for comparison to yours.
Attach file:
IMG_0483.jpg (108.41 KB)
The later columns must slide up into the passenger compt to come off the shaft so the steering wheel and a large compression spring needs to be removed. That also involves removing the horn wire. Later columns have a ball bearing at the top and in order to remove the column there is a concave split washer that is tight to the steering shaft which forms the inner race of the bearing. That split washer must be removed because if present the washer is so tight the column and bearing cannot push it up the shaft when you try to slide the column off. On some shafts there is also a lock ring in a groove around the shaft to further prevent the split washer from moving.
Before moving your column I would suggest taking a measurement of the distance between the bottom of the column and the steering box so you can get it back in close position. That will avoid possibly fighting to fix a different width gap between the column and wheel hub after the wheel is back on.
If there is a ball bearing on your column also suggest you take the opportunity to check its condition. Some have found the cage holding the balls to have worn or broken allowing the bearing to fall apart.
Here is a photo of the upper end of a 47 column showing the bearing and split washer. You might be able to use the photo for comparison to yours.
Attach file:
IMG_0483.jpg (108.41 KB)
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