Removing u-joint in lower steering column

[thedeal]

I am having trouble removing the u-joint/s-joint in my lower steering column. I did a search and the bentley is of no help.

I hit a nasty pot hole a few weeks ago that took out my oil pan. With it, it got my front subframe. The impact separated the sacrificial joint section of the u-joint. I need to remove it and either install a new one, or press the joint back together and re-install it. It being separated causes some play in my steering.

I know I need to completely remove the bottom 13mm bolt where it connects to the steering rack and at least loosen the top bolt where it connects to the upper stearing column. I removed both bolts and neither end of the u-joint will budge off of the splined shaft.

Any Suggestions?

[PeaveyBassist]

Try to get something in there to spread apart the clamping portion of those. Maybe some PB blaster or some heat too. Try also a pry bar on the top portion of the ujoint and pry down with it to get it to slide off the column.

[thedeal]

I tried to spread it apart using a chisel and a screw driver as a wedge. I also pried down on it with a pry bar. It is in a little bit of an awkward position though. I guess my next step is pb blaster + heat + wedge + prybar. Thanks.

Any other tips or suggestions people?

[PeaveyBassist]

If possible, you could try sticking a screwdriver in there to spread it apart and then getting a pair of channel locks (or the correct size wrench) around the handle of the screwdriver so you have more leverage to twist apart. Use a useless/junk screwdriver when doing this because it is possible that the head will break with enough force. When you do this, make sure the steering wheel is locked if you didnt do that already.

[E30_fiend]

I am assuming you have a non airbag steering column so at least you have an easier task than an airbag column car. Try dropping the steering rack bolts. I believe they are 15 or 16mm heads. Pull those out and you will most likely get the play you need to move the column. Those aluminum pieces can get really gummed up especially on an old car. Once the rack has dropped and you can move it around a bit, you SHOULD have the room and mobility to get the job done.







Taylor

[vr2jetta]

I just put a rack in my car earlier today and found putting a screwdriver in the joint to spread it apart and a little patience will be the best bet. You may want to pull the rack bolts and slide it down to give more play when sliding the joint off the shaft.

[thedeal]

Wow! This thing is a bitch. I tried all of the things listed above and it doesn't want to budge. When I pry on the top portion, the rest of the column just wants to come with it. When I stick a screwdriver in the clamp portion, the aluminum is just so soft that it wants to give instead of spread. I will keep trying until darkness comes, but honestly there has to be a better way.
:drink: