69 Cougar Mustang Tilt Away Upper andLlower Bearings

Greetings,

Hello forum members,

I am rebuilding my Tilt-Away column as it would not tilt away.

In the process, I identified a few issues.

  1. A snap ring is installed in front of the upper bearing.
  2. No lower bearing
  3. Wires pinched (Plastic sleeve missing)
  4. Insulation in lower tube missing

Reputable sites indicate snap rings were not installed on the upper and lower bearings.

The trusted WCCC site states “Used snap ring that is used to hold the bearing on you the steering shaft. This ring was used on 67 - 78 fixed columns and 70 - 78 tilt columns. Not for use on 67 - 69 tilt columns.”

Snap Ring - Fixed / Tilt Column - Used ~ 1967 - 1973 Mercury Cougar / 1967 - 1973 Ford Mustang ( 1967 Mercury Cougar, 1968 Mercury Cougar, 1969 Mercury Cougar, 1970 Mercury Cougar, 1971 Mercury Cougar, 1972 Mercury Cougar, 1973 Mercury Cougar, 1967 Ford Mustang, 1968 Ford Mustang, 1969 Ford Mustang, 1970 Ford Mustang, 1971 Ford Mustang, 1972 Ford Mustang, 1973 Ford Mustang ) at West Coast Classic Cougar :: The Definitive 1967 - 1973 Mercury Cougar Parts Source

A few postings indicate that the turn signal wiring base holds the upper bearing in place.

Other postings indicate a bushing holds the lower bearing in place.

One person posted a detailed 68 diagram that does not include snap rings or a rubber bushing. See attachment.

Requesting expert guidance on the installation of these bearings.

I am aware of many services available to perform a rebuild. After paying for a failed restoration, I have elected to rebuild the column myself.

Thanks. Norman.

A spring under the steering wheel nut holds the upper bearing tight.