Originally posted by DennyW
Hey, that really looks great. That's the style I want to use in my 34 chevy truck. I want to use stainless tube though. Would it be possible for you to email the bearing No., and type? I'm not sure what to use. I have a couple ideas, but, seems you have it done to a T. Thanks, Denny

I couldn't find the bearing number.
(No surprise there. After the move to Arizona 4 months ago, I can't find much of anything....)

If you use a GM column, the shaft is 3/4" in diameter.
Go to your local bearing house and buy a sealed bearing with an ID of 3/4" and the smallest OD possible.
You may have to file away some light burrs on the shaft so the bearing will slide on, but it's a quick and easy deal.

The 1 5/8" OD aluminum tube I use has a 1/8" wall so the tubing ID is 1 3/8".
You wont' be able to find a bearing with 3/4" ID in a 1 3/8" OD.
At least I couldn't and that was checking at a couple of bearing houses.

What you'll need is a couple of machined adapters with one end sized to fit inside your tubing and the other bored to fit the bearing.
I usually JB Weld (an epoxy) the lower adapter and either leave the top one loose or use a dab of clear silicon to retain it in place.
If you're reasonable in the use of the silicon it's easy to pull apart and it stops vibrational wear between tube and adapter.
The epoxied in piece can be removed as well.
A little heat is all that's required. Bout 400-600 degrees F.

The pic below will give you an idea of the components used.
Disregard the quick release hub and flat aluminum column drop.
What you're interested in are the adapters, bearings and stainless steel retainers.