Patent ID: 8240424

Claim:
A tubular valve tower extension element ( 30 ) for connection to a free end of a valve tower ( 22 ) of a steering system for a vehicle, with a connection end ( 42 ) for connection to said valve tower ( 22 ), with an opening ( 34 ) located opposite said connection end and with a bearing ( 32 ) disposed in the region of said opening ( 34 ); wherein the tubular valve tower extension element ( 30 ) is connected to the valve tower ( 22 ) of the steering system by inserting an input shaft ( 46 ) or a steering column of the valve tower ( 22 ) through the opening ( 34 ) so that the input shaft or steering column is rotatable carried by the bearing ( 32 ); and wherein the opening ( 34 ) is surrounded by a peripheral sealing lip ( 38 ) for minimizing penetration of dirt and/or humidity through abutment on said input shaft or steering column.