early 67 fixed steering column bearing

[ChiTownPack]

I own an early 67 Mustang coupe with the solid "spear" shaft steering column. I want to keep this manual gearbox and column until I can save my pennies to move to a rack and pinion system. The problem I'm having is finding a replacement steering column bearing for the early 67 fixed steering columns. I did find the ford part number on Sacramento Mustang's website, but they said it was discontinued and they sent me what they said is the suggested replacement (lower steering column bearing for a 67 tilt column). Of course it won't fit. Since everything I read states the 67 solid shaft steering box is similar to 66, I ordered the bearing for the 65-66. Won't fit. The outside diameter is too large. Same with the 66 bearing.
The steering column bearing Ford part number is: C40Z-3517A. I am not able to find this part anywhere. I have a hard time believing I am the first person trying to find this bearing and cannot. If anyone knows where I can get this bearing or knows of a replacement bearing that will work, your help is greatly appreciated.

 

[hipobuzz]

ChiTown,
I have the same problem with my early '67 restoration. Did you ever come up with a solution?
Best wishes,
Hipobuzz

 

[2+2GT]

Ford discontinued this bearing years ago. Guess what? Unlike most of what they did, this one was not an industry standard, nor was it used in 10 years of production. It was a unique, purpose-made bearing. If you can't find an NOS replacement, you'll have to get a used one. Typically, they don't go bad, they get lost during restoration or rusty when the car sits in grandma's back yard for 10 years.