Removing/replacing upper steering column bearings

[tangouniform]

I have my tilt column in pieces to tighten the 4 bolts that loosen up over time, and while I'm doing this I thought I might as well replace the upper bearings. However, I can't figure out how to get the old bearings out. There's not a lip to get a punch or screwdriver on. I've searched all over the web for a how to but can't find anything. Help!

 

[diesel4me]

I've never had to replace one,but it appears you'd need a slide hammer type puller with 2 or 3 jaws that expand to grab the outer shell of the bearing to get it out..

 

[K5Jimmy]

Parts store should have a kit you can borrow.

 

[frankin5]

@Nutro replaced those bearing in his column.

 

[tangouniform]

I got impatient and just popped the plastic part of the bearing out and replaced that and left the metal part in. Fingers crossed.

 

[Nutro]

Man, cross your fingers. I did that at first and the bearings took a shit and made my truck very unsafe to drive in an instant. I pulled it all apart a FOURTH time (for various reasons lol) and finally put a new bearing/race in it and it's tight and safe now.

 

[tangouniform]

Man, cross your fingers. I did that at first and the bearings took a shit and made my truck very unsafe to drive in an instant. I pulled it all apart a FOURTH time (for various reasons lol) and finally put a new bearing/race in it and it's tight and safe now.

Well in case I have to do that, how did you get the old bearings out?

 

[Nutro]

A really small flat tip screw driver and just worked it around. Only made it about an inch before the race popped loose.