steering and suspension Steering Shaft Removal - SOS!

[cbesing]

Hi,

 

After searching FAQ and not finding an answer, i need some help in removing the steering shaft.  I have the shaft separated from the flex coupling.  The shaft will pull out about 2" and then stop as if there was a pin or some other type of limiter.  When I pull hard into the stop, the sound appears to come from the area of the ignition switch.  I confirmed that there is no other obstruction from the engine side of the firewall. The Haynes manual suggests it should just slide out of the column once the shaft is removed from the flex coupling. 

 

I will send video/pictures later if it helps.

 

Thanks

 

chris

1976 2002

 

 

[arminyack]

It sounds like its just locked......with the key in the ignition (and turned) turn the steering wheel until it is free, and pull it out

[TobyB]

Are you trying to pull the shaft out of the tube, leaving the tube in the  car?  I've always unbolted the whole mess...

 

You've found the clip at the top of the tube if you get 2", and the steering lock SHOULD also be free

if you've gotten that far.  And I can't imagine you haven't pulled the flange ears off the bottom of the shaft...

 

Hmmm, it might be pic time.

 

t

 

[cbesing]

i tried turning the wheel both directions at each key position but didn't work. Ill keep trying. ill post video later today.

[cbesing]

Here is a pic and video 

IMG_7837.MOV

[2002haus]

Looks like you are close. 

 

The remaining cup needs to be freed from the shaft. 

 

The 4 small irregular shaped areas under the cup allow some sort of wedge in place to separate the two parts.

 

Once separated the shaft should come out all the way.

 

Edited June 13, 2016 by 2002haus

[cbesing]

Your plate looks a little different.  It looks like the retainer cup/ring might pry out. Does that make since?

 

BTW, thanks much for the guidance, youre right, I am close!

[cbesing]

Still having trouble with this. Do I pry this out?

[jgerock]

make sure to completely remove the pinch bolt at the top of the coupling or else the shaft will not come out.  Put the steering wheel back on to give yourself some leverage

[cbesing]

ended up taking out steering column and got it out on the bench. Is this the proper order for the bearing. Should I replace with new upgraded part?

[cbesing]

Finally!

 

once column was out of car, used shaft to bang out bearing from column. Make sure the key is in on so not to damage steering lock. 

 

Bearing came apart when coming out of column, had to grind edge of bearing carrier so locking ring could fit. 

 

Here is final picture

 

thanks to all for the help. 

 

Chris