Failed Golfys MOT in style....

[X4MGS]

Should that happen? 

Whoops & HOLY CRAP!!!

That looks very dangerous...

[Michael]

Really?

I guess the column should have come out as one whole length then?

Bit concerned now....

[danny_p]

umm  dont ever rember been abel to take the steering wheel off like that

[JC]

i think the top bearing play is now the least of your worries 

[Michael]

Was just saying to Ken that if I reassembled with a new top bearing I think with this "feature" in my Golf, I'll still be looking at too much play.

Having not seen a proper steering column in the flesh, does what I have bear any resemblance?

Is mine like a standard column but in two halves or does it look nothing like what should be there?

If I do get a standard column will it actually fit the car?

Thanks everyone

[Bandit127]

I don't think any expert in steering columns has posted on this thread yet. Most are looking at what you have and thinking WTF!!!

I am no expert either - but these are my thoughts FWIW.

Looking at what you have I don't think it seems that out of order.

You have an outer sleeve of square section that fits over an inner shaft of the same section. There seems to be a hole in the outer that suggests a pin might be needed that goes through both. It doesn't seem that weird. The clamp on the ignition switch bracket will certainly hold it together once it is assembled - as it did before I assume.

I reckon what you have is standard but it has come apart in a non standard way.

To be safe I think you should seek expert advice. Or get a whole assembly from a scrappy.

But I don't think you should immediately assume this one is wrong or bodged.

[danny_p]

your columb looks like a standard one,  just a standard one thats fallen apart

[Michael]

Thanks Bandit and Danny, that's really great. Good news at last!

The column did go together ok, and as you spotted it it a rounded square section. It does seem the bottom half is quite firmly left behind. If I'm allowed any time on the car later I'll have a good go at removing that section. I think with both halves I'll have a better idea of what I've got!

I have a column offer at the moment from Ken, so hopefully I'll be able to get something sorted!

Thanks again everyone

[molegti]

The colomn is teleoscopic so the lower half will move inside the upper in an accident however i dont belive it should come apart.

[Michael]

A public thank you to Ken for sorting me out some bits and pieces. Has been a really satisfying productive evening.

Second hand column is now fitted. Brand new lock assembly fitted too. No play in the steering wheel at all now, it's perfect. Did take ages but the Autowork in Salisbury had a special tool to remove the spline adapter. That releases the lock assembly. Put it back on myself packing it down bit by bit with washers. Swapped over locks too so i keep the same key. I took some photos though so I'll post these in case it helps someone else.

Fitted my second hand but great nick Hellas. Goodbye crosshairs...hello Hellas, again thanks to Ken.

Sorted my stalks too so they now cancel.

Fitted seat guides to side and front runner. Massive difference, especially the front runner. Thanks Ken.

So brakes to fit but already bought and ready. MOT rebooked for next week. Fingers crossed!

Thanks all for your help and advice and thanks to Ken for such prompt postage and coming to the rescue with the bits I needed.