Steering Column Lower Bearing

[GOLF_MK]

The golf went through it's MOT yesterday  (first time pass) with three advisories;

Rear brake pipes (both sides) slightly corroded and play in steering column lower bearing.

I was aware of the play in the steering column but haven't looked at the cause yet so it's good to get a free diagnosis!!

Question is how easy is it to do?  Anyone here done it.  It's not urgent but will need doing before the next MOT i guess....

[Rmachines]

All i know is on the MK3 its a bit of a pain but possible when you put your mind to it.  my top bearing is going.

[GOLF_MK]

mmmm, nobody done it ever?? 

[Wayne]

Having replaced my inner column a month or so ago I can 100% confirm that there is no lower bearing as such, however the top bearing is a roller type, the only bearing towards the bottom is a uj which would be easy to change.

[GOLF_MK]

OK that's good info thanks.

I thought the movement felt like it was more at the top end to be honest so was surprised to get an advisory on the bottom bearing.  I think further investigations are needed.  Hopefully it's not the UJ £££ !!

[Wayne]

My old column had play and was noted on the mot as the top bearing, I cured mine with replacing the column due to the steering lock playing up.

[leegt5]

Theres is a lower column bearing/bush I have done mine !!! Its grey in colour and about £3 from volkswagen !! Not really common for them to fail, I just changed mine to eliminate it from being the problem !!

If you look at the bottom of the steering column there is a small spring butted up against the UJ. If you undo the UJ and the spring pops off there in a plastic bearing butted up inside the column tube.

If you look at the bottom of the steering column where the tube starts you can just see the silver rim of the lower column bearing. To remove it you lift the inner column out then put your finger up the bottom of the tube and pull it out.

[carlgti]

ah i think this may be the problem with mine, glad i just found this because i literally just noticed the play in my steering column tonight.

[GOLF_MK]

thanks lee gt5, i'm hoping to get some time at the weekend to have a proper look so this has given me more ideas!

[Rmachines]

tbh it would probably stay an advisory for the next 5 years anyway