Dodge Repair: 2002 dodge dakota, negative battery cable, shaft coupler

Question
how to replace steering universal u-joint coupler

Answer
Lower

REMOVAL
Disconnect the negative battery cable.
Raise and support the vehicle.
NOTE: The steering column on vehicles with an automatic transmission may not be equipped with an internal locking shaft that allows the ignition key cylinder to be locked with the key. Alternative methods of locking the steering wheel for service will have to be used.

Lock the steering wheel with the tire in the straight position.
Remove and discard the upper coupler pinch bolt (STEERING SHAFT).
Remove and discard the lower coupler pinch bolt (STEERING SHAFT).
Remove the lower steering shaft coupler (STEERING SHAFT).



Upper

REMOVAL
Disconnect the negative battery cable.
NOTE: The steering column on vehicles with an automatic transmission may not be equipped with an internal locking shaft that allows the ignition key cylinder to be locked with the key. Alternative methods of locking the steering wheel for service will have to be used.

Lock the steering wheel with the tire in the straight position.
Remove and discard the lower pinch bolt.
Lower the steering coupler shaft from the column.
Remove the toe plate nuts (STEERING SHAFT).
Remove and discard the lower coupler pinch bolt from the lower steering coupling shaft (STEERING SHAFT).
Remove the upper steering coupling shaft from the vehicle (STEERING SHAFT).