I just does not seem to fit right



Should the metal ring sit in the bearing?


Does not sit central


Thanks nick

Looks similar to mine, it's from an escort (an early curvy one i think).
Yes i think it should come through a bit more and you're missing the ignition barrel housing piece. This has another bearing which will support the end of the column closest to the wheel.
Get that bit on and it will be very obvious how far through the column should go

Where would I get that piece from?

breakers yard would be your best bet.
Loads of them where i go!

To be clear there are 2 pieces you need, they are usually bolted together.

A silver ignition barrel housing. Obviously an ignition barrel and key would be useful.
This ignition barrel attaches to a black convaluted tube that goes over the bit you already have.
This blank piece will give you a 'collapsible' element for you column also.

I would suggest you have a look at indicator/wiper swtiches which you're at it as these will bolt to the ignition housing, and then also the shrouding.

Note you will probably need a star driver bit to remove the shroud.

Hope this helps!

In the top photo, is the triangle section being supported in the bearing?

Don't think it should be!

Will these extra bits be on show or are they behind the dash, as I like the minimalist look

You have so little of the column it would be easier to buy another complete one.
What you want should look like this:

Description
The spring under the collar compresses and preloads the bearings when you tighten the steering wheel, and the
plastic bush on the triangular section fits in the bearing on the bulkhead.
Also the triangular section gets pushed in, so if it doesn't reach the clamp will need pulling out.