Installation Instructions

Q: How do I know if my steering shaft is 3/4" or 1" in diameter?

Measure the shaft where it exits the bottom of the column tube, just above the rag joint in the engine bay, with a caliper. This kit is sold with a size selection because both diameters were used across 64-1/2 to 73 Mustangs, Falcons, Rancheros, Comets, Fairlanes, Mavericks and F-100s -- if you're not certain, measure before ordering so the bearing presses on correctly. Note: per MustangSteve's official instructions, this kit is not designed to fit steering columns that have the factory tilt/locking mechanism installed.

Q: Is this the upper or lower column bearing, and what problem does it fix?

This is the lower bearing, located where the steering shaft passes through the bottom of the column tube above the rag joint -- not the bearing behind the steering wheel. The factory nylon/plastic bushing at that location wears out over the decades and turns into slop, which owners describe as a knock or looseness in the steering feel that isn't coming from the steering box or rag joint itself. This kit replaces that worn bushing with a proper ball bearing.

Q: Does installing this require cutting the column or any special tools?

Per MustangSteve's official instructions, you typically do need to cut the protruding inner column tube flush with the end of the outer column tube (and clean up the edges) -- a rotary tool with a small cut-off wheel works well for this. Beyond that cut, the old bushing is pressed/driven out of the tube and the new bearing pressed into place, and no other special tools are needed once the column is out of the car.