quote:Originally posted by Joules5:
I thought that if the steering column shaft dropped or you could push the steering wheel in that was indicative of a failed lower column bushing?
The column is a two piece with a slip joint and the plastic clips break which is often the source of steering play. Some advocate pinning or welding the two halves stogether.
Julian
Yes, there is a web article floating around that gives the impression that if you can push the steering column shaft down that the bushing is shot, but that is not always the case. The spring at the top of the steering column shaft is what holds the shaft in the up position against the bottom of the bushing in the lower column. I expect that on all Panteras the column can be pushed down some against the spring. When the wheel is removed the shaft can be pushed way down as the slip joint collapses. If the lower bushing is damaged the shaft can move up until the U joint hits the bottom of the steering column tube. Here is a link that has pictures of the bushing http://www.panteraplace.com/page208.htm It also covers a simple repair for the slip joint.
Mike