Removing upper steering column UJ

[bobfather]

Upper steering column UJ (PAS if that makes a difference) has started to stiffen at extreme articulation. I've got it free again with silicon spray followed by axle grease. Replacement is on order but I can't work out how to remove it as there appears to be very little free play in the column. Is there a method for this??

[Pupp]

You need to back off all the clamp bolts on both UJs and maybe pry the clamps apart a tad, then jiggle the shaft and joints back and forward to get enough clearance to pop it out... hope the replacement is the same length as the old one (longer 108mm one no longer available it seems)

Remember to mark the relative positions of each joint on its respective splines for alignment or you'll be swearing

Edited by Pupp on Monday 6th July 22:30

[Hedgehopper]

I find that you actually need to remove the four locking nuts and bolts, then tap the upper u/j upwards and the lower u/j downwards. The shaft should then come out but you may need to revolve the steering to achieve the optimum u/j angles. If the shaft still won't come out try loosening or even removing the rack bolts.

As said in previous post mark all the joints and shaft first.