Mk4 Upper Steering Rod Question

[BadAsp427]

So, today I was intsalling the steering rod(s) and when I started the top rod, putting it in to the lower, the manual states to put in the 1/4" spring washer in to the indents on the upper rod. It seems that I do not have those. Can someone please explain the purpose of those spring washers. with the rod installed, there seems to be just shy of zero play and it is about 12 inches into the lower rod.
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[edwardb]

Those are called Belleville washers. They're small, relatively thin, slightly cone shaped washers. They should be in the bag(s) with the rest of the steering shaft hardware. They are easy to miss. Their purpose is to put a slight amount of tension between the inner and outer sections of the collapsing steering column. You want every bit of slop taken out of that joint, so they're very important. Don't assemble without them. Many, me included, take additional measures, e.g. at the other end of the column, to reduce any remaining slop. Any amount of looseness will be felt in the steering wheel while driving and isn't good. But you still want to preserve the safety aspect of the collapsing column.

[BadAsp427]

Thanks Paul,
I did some digging and found the washers in a completely unrelated bag of stuff along with a couple set screws... just a little sneak peak into my world... LOL Thanks again...

[John T]

Thanks for starting this thread. I am working on the steering shaft as well. (Just mocking up the shaft at this point.) I had seen those washers but I missed what they were for. Now when it's time to install things permanently, i won't miss this step. Thanks again.

[BadAsp427]

Thanks for starting this thread. I am working on the steering shaft as well. (Just mocking up the shaft at this point.) I had seen those washers but I missed what they were for. Now when it's time to install things permanently, i won't miss this step. Thanks again.

I just found a small ziplock bag and hung them with a zip tie to the steering rod right where the wheel will go later.

[Dthquazi]

Remember which box by chance?

[BadAsp427]

No, I do not... It was very strange where I found them. Also, I have found that what is in your box 1A is not what is in my 1A etc.... Sorry... But they are small, not as big as you may be looking for.... I would say 3/8" diameter. And wavy... ie, not flat

[Dthquazi]

I remember inventory and seeing them but not hwta they were for.

[John T]

Remember which box by chance?
I believe the steering shaft parts were in box 1H in my order.

[BadAsp427]

Ok, so I did some looking for you... Here is the bag. (ignore the writing in blue, I put that on there once I found it.) Mine was listed in box 1H, but was back-order for my kit and I found it in one of my POL boxes. But the main thing, is that it has the two spring washers, the Allen bolt and washer for the steering column as well as the other listed items, which I have use... Hope this helps.
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