John,
Seems odd that the pitting is only on the bearing surfaces, no signs of rust anywhere.
There were still signs of the grease used during re-assembly and the oil had run out past the O-ring but there was still some left and no signs of water.
Ex military and almost as it left service so probably last overhauled by the Army.
Because it has the horn push in the centre I did wonder if the horn had been earthing through the bearings. Either through a dirty slip-ring or the wire disconnected interestingly there is a modern connector on the wire to the slip-ring.
Ball bearings are unmarked but I haven't checked for roundness.
If earthing then the bearing at the top of the column would also be damaged.
Could also be way too much pre-load when it was overhauled.
Anyway, need to look for another steering assembly. My theory is that if you have a spare that part will never fail on the vehicle.
Colin
Bookmarks