How Do You Separate Steering Col from U Joint Assy

[Turtlebarbeque]

This a car for it parts only and I can't seem to get the U joint assy out since it will not release from the steering column. What am I missing or what did I do wrong. I will send an ice cream cone to anyone that can help. Thank you in advance

I hope the photos are good enough to show connection that is to be.....unconnected.

37631
37632
37633

[DMCMW Dave]

Did you free up the center slip joint? It looks like you have it mostly separated.

[Turtlebarbeque]

is there some way you can be more specific, what is the center slip joint?
Thanks

[DMC5180]

The upper end of the lower U-joint has a pinch bolt that needs to be loosened at a minimum. But judging from the rust I see, you will need to remove the bolt. Soak the crap out of it with penetrant. You may also need to wedge a thick flat screwdriver in the slit about where the pinch bolt goes in order to loosen the spline yoke. Once loose, you slide the upper shaft into the lower u-joint.

[Turtlebarbeque]

Thanks, Dennis
I will put your plan in action first thing in the morning and let you know how it works out.

[Henrik]

I removed my steering shaft from the U-joint just recently (while converting from auto to manual) and I had a hell of a time getting them apart. There is very limited swinging space for a hammer or any other tool for that matter.

Eventually I found the perfect tool, see sketch. 37699

Some time ago I laid a tongue and groove wood floor in my house and left over from that project was a tool that allows you to lay the last board up against the wall. Once I found this tool, it was very easy to get the shaft to slide out.

I think Home Depot and Lowes sell it; or you might fabricate it yourself.