911 & 914/6 Upper Steering Bearing, I found a replacement - any interest? Options

[McMark]

I have a 3.2 conversion project that's getting a 911 steering column for the key-on-the-left. Well this column we got didn't have the upper steering bearing and new replacements are $260. I was able to find something that will work for much less. Wondering if there is any interest in putting together some kits to sell.

These are not for 914/4 key on the right columns. It's a drop in replacement and should only take a few minutes to install. If there's interest I'll sell the first two at a steep discount as long as they get installed soon so I can confirm there are no installation issues or small variances from car to car.

[sbsix]

Old NOS bearing is on the left, and a brand new NOS bearing on the right. There was no wear or mars on the old bearing, it appeared as fresh as the day Uncle Hans installed it. I didn't clean off the old grease before taking the picture.

There is no difference in the two bearings, except for a "Made in Germany" around the circumference of the new NOS bearing and it's build date of 12/97. IIRC I paid about $160 for it and went through Stoddard.

The NOS bearing causes the slop in the steering wheel. If I had installed the new NOS bearing I would not have gotten rid of the free play in the steering wheel! The wheel simply does not have a tight tolerence with the NOS bearing in the steering column. I'm wondering if all 914-6's came with this issue.

Anyone care to comment on their steering "free play?"

Mark, long story short, your bearing works as intended. The removal of the old bearing is cumbersome using a hammer and screwdrivers, but short of designing and building a specific removal tool, it looks like its the only way to go. Installation could not have been easier, and the end result is impressive.

I'm very glad to have had the chance to help out.