Removing steering column

[basement]

I read here that you are supposed to removed a drift pin from the steering coupler before attempting to pull the column back out the fire wall. Is this pin solid or hollow, because I can run a small screw driver clear through and out the other side where this pin would normally be? Assuming the pin was never installed then I should be able to pull on that column and walla! But the column won't bulge.

[IMNCARN82]

It's a roll pin. Hollow. You need something the perfect size to drive it out. It can be a pain. Let it soak in PB or a penetrating oil for a nite. Mine popped right out. The real pain was getting the coupler far enough off.

[MEK-Dangerfield]

It shouldn't be that bad if you have the right sized punch. In lieu of that, I used an old "T" type of valve cover hold down. The threaded side provided a perfect sized punch.


  Mike

[basement]

Got it, thanks guys. Now that I have the column out I plan on repainting the column covers, do they just slide off after the steering wheel is pulled? Would there be  maintenance you'd recommend be done to the column now that it's completely out?

[Chryco Psycho]

the column needs to be disassembled to getthe housing / cover off , not much to service inside , basicaly just tubes slipped together , you can lube the upper brg & clean & paint all the parts