When rear end is jacked up, I can push in on the top of the left rear wheel and there is roughly 1/4" of movement. From under the car I can see that all the movement is where the shaft runs into the differential... does not appear to be ANY play in the u-joints or the hub bearings. On the right side, there is about 1/8" of movement... is this normal?

I need to remove my wooden steering wheel to refinish the top portion. From what little I've found on removal, I need to disconnect the negative battery for at least 30 minutes before removing the airbag. After airbag removed, the main center nut is revealed.. is there anything special I need to look out for??? I heard one person say there may be some sort of coil or clock spring underneath the wheel that has to be 'locked' into place before removing the wheel?

Thx, scott
'96 VDP

 

jag-genius, much thanks for the quick responses! I'll keep an eye on the rear wheel 'play' but not sure I need to do anything just yet.... absolutely no noise or whirling or wobbling at this time and hub bearings appear new. I'll tackle the steering wheel soon so I can get that refinished. Again, much thanks!