Land Rovers have bearings in the top and bottom of the steering column. The replacement of which is described on the Defender workshop manual.
Unfortunately replacement bearings are not available through Land Rover or any of the normal bearing stockists and at approx. 80 (Pounds Stirling) for a new column, it makes for an expensive job.
Replacement of the bearings can be done
in 2 ways, either by removing the column
from the vehicle which involves removing
the steering lock or, by removing the drivers side wing to gain access
to the bottom column bearing. If you use this method you must also disconnect
the link to the steering box.
Both require the removal of the steering
wheel.
Instructions for the above can be found
in the 90/110 workshop manual.
Once access is gained, remove the lower
bearing retaining circlip and , after checking that the steering lock is
unlocked, tap the inner column downwards with a soft hammer.
This will push the lower bearing out enabling
access to the bearing retaining collet and roll pin. Using a pin punch,
knock out the roll pin and remove the collet, noting which way it was fitted
as they are not all symmetrical. The bearing can now be removed from the
inner shaft and replaced.
The upper bearing should be knocked out
upwards and the replacement fitted so that it is 10mm from the top of the
column.
Reassembly is the reverse of the above,
fit the lower bearing, fit collet, insert roll pin, refit inner column
to outer and replace circlip.
Job Done
The above proceedure is detailed in the 90/110 Workshop manual
Any questions or comments should be email'd to us.