ok...finally got the steering column removed out of my 641 and discovered, just as i was told here, the top thrust bearing is totally trashed..nothing but a hull of it left. I was wanting to remove the side covers so i could lift the shaft out and clean out the metal bearings, shavings , even some water in the bottom of the box and check the condition of the lower thrust bearing but can not get the side covers to budge. Removed the two bolts, loosened off the adjusting nut, and tapped with a screwdriver and small hammer on the edge of the side cover, but it never moved a bit. Before I get a bigger hammer and risk busting something, wanted to ask for some help! thanks to anyone who can give me some tips/advice.