Classic/Antique Car Repair: Steering shaft removal 1970 Buick Skylark - GM A Body, 1970 buick skylark, buick skylark

Question
Thanks for taking my question. I need to remove and the re-install the steering shaft on my 1970 Buick Skylark. There seems to be an expandable joint or at least the shaft seems to be two piece. But not ever removing the shaft from the joint just after the firewall down to the the point it connects to the steering box, I wanted help and that's how I came to you. Thanks again for your expertise in advance. Craig 480.980.3881

Answer
Craig, you are describing the joint in the shaft that allows the shaft to collapse on a frontal impact. If you try to pull that joint apart you will ruin the plastic breakaway joint inside. The best thing to do is to remove the entire assembly and work on it on the bench. Break the shaft at the flex joint at the steering box. Pull the carpet and the metal shield around the shaft as it goes through the floor board. I think there is four bolts that hold the upper column to the bottom of the dash and then disconnect the wiring. There will be a link from the shifter or upper shift collar to the transmission that is easy to disconnect. Once on the bench remove the steering wheel and the shaft will probably drop out of the bottom of the upper column. To install reverse the procedure. Good luck.
Brad