steering column bearings?

[rafajara1985]

i have a bunch of play in my steering wheel (up, down and side to side) and sometimes it gets really hard to turn unless I pull up on the wheel. I think my column bearings are going out or something. Anyone ever replaced these before or had a similar problem?

 

[JLDickmon]

doubt it's bearings...
there are some bolts that hold the tilt mechanism on.. pretty good for coming loose..
this is about as deep in a steering column as you're gonna get..
it's not really all that difficult, but it is time consuming, as you have to think your way through a couple spots..
(if you have a digital camera, take LOTS of pictures)
you're going to need a pivot pin puller as well as a puller for the steering wheel.

those bolts are also a special "tighten down 'til the heads snap off" variety... be prepared to down the truck a couple days while the dealer (only source I'm aware of) orders them in

 

[stroker21]

There were bearings in my OBS PS. I had the same problems that you are describing with the movement in the steering wheel in all directions. I replaced the top bearing once and didn't know there was a bottom. Top one went out again and end up eating on the steering column. I found a complete steering column on ebay and had my mechanic replace it because it is very complicated process. I don't know it the new ones are the same but from what you are describing and what mine was doing, it sounds like they are the same.