Steering column bushing?

[cyrmanj]

Hi all:

My e30 has a vibration on the steering wheel. A friend of mine has identified the issue as a steering column bushing that needs replacement.

If you grab with your hand the coupling encircled on the image below and force it, it moves a bit, so it makes sense. He told me that all I need is a vinyl-like bushing, my question: is it that small # 4 part or # 3 on the image below?



As per ETK # 4's description is "bush" and # 3's is: "universal joint" Part #'s are: # 4: 32311114508 and # 3: 32311153993.

I know the question is kinda obvious, but honestly I don't have a clue, any inputs would be appreciated.

Thx!

[emi325i]

I replaced the whole joint and it still has play.. the little vinyl bushing wore out again in a month. Also note, the joint on airbag cars are different.

[Aptyp]

Vinyl bushing is #4 in that image, but it's sole purpose it to center linkage around that "universal joint". I have #4 removed and #3 replaced with urethane disk from Ireland Engineering. Personally, I don't see how you'd have play in that knuckle, your friend probably feels movement from twisting it over two actual u-joints and not over rubber disk. Hope this helps.

[cyrmanj]

Thx, car is non air bag.

but it's sole purpose it to center linkage around that "universal joint".

Good clarification, I was expecting a bushing similar to a rotaflex. Your recommendation of buying an urethane disk sounds good in order to reduce vibration or is it a more track oriented application that reduces comfort?

Also, I can't find an url for Ireland Eng...

Regards...