25 steering box advice needed

Unknown

Started working on newly acquired '25 which has been in storage for

40+ years...and needs everything. It has a very severe bind in the

steering column end play adjustment bushing. It appears to me to be

made of "white metal", and my guess is that it has swolen over the

years and bound around the shaft as well as into the box. As a result

I've had no luck getting it out of the box, or freeing the shaft,

although I can, with full strength of both hands, turn the steering

wheel with great effort. All other steering components are free and

well lubed. Right now I'm tempted to split or break out the bushing

and replace it with brass, but am seeking the advice of others

smarter and more experienced than I am before I do.



Anyone else had the problem....and suggestions to offer?



Thanks,

Joe McEvoy

Massachusetts