I have been in the process of replacing an ignition switch on my 73 914. During this found the reason why my steering wheel had a lot of slop in it. The upper steering wheel bearing was done for. So while im here im going to replace it. However im having issues with ordering the correct bearing.

Referencing this old thread:
http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=182321

I can get this part number: 911-347-771-02-M100.
Now searching for that gives only parts for a 911, am i correct in assuming this is the same part? Just numbers have switched?

For reference this is what I pulled from my steering column. The exact process as stated in the mention thread. Mine didnt have any plastic bushing to speak of (probably because it rotted out)

Bearing Part number: F-43188

Later cars (after 71?) had the metal sleeve that you show instead of plastic . My 73’s both had the metal sleeve you show

Looks like the bearing is 24mm x 40mm x 8mm

https://www.noc.ua/online-catalog-bearings/...p;title=F-43188

Click to view attachment


Edit: from quick research, it looks like that bearing might also be used on the VW type 1 (no confirmation).

Found a more local supplier in Anaheim, CA.

https://vxb.com/products/24x40x8mm-non-stan...mm-x-40mm-x-8mm

So this should cover it and easier to order. Already have the new metal sleeve. It would have been nice if there was a sealed version of this bearing but beggars cant be choosers.

Good find!

As for the metal sleeve, I see a couple of options, the one you show ( which is also a VW Beetle one) :

Click to view attachment

And then there is this version that is used on 74+ 911s and 928. Would it fit the 914, and if so, is it better than the crush type?

Click to view attachment

To close this thread out. Received the bearing really quick.
Compared to the original. Much bigger balls (heh). Down side is that there is no sealed side to the bearing so eventually grease will start falling out the back side. Might make some thin gasket to prevent that from happening. Or just use some super tacky grease.

You've got the BIGGEST balls of them all!

(the finger wound looks choice too! I hate those!)