Expert: Mike Evans - 6/29/2009

Question
Mike, I'm trying to take my steering column out of my 91 S-10. What is the easiest way to do it? I have the steering column loose already. It seems if there is only a couple more steps left. Please help. Thank you.

Answer
    Well, I assume that you have unbolted the brackets under the dash, and disconnected the wiring for the switches underneath the column.  This is an easier job if you've also removed the steering wheel.  It will also be easier if you leave the key in the lock so that the shaft will not lock, it'll give you a little more flexibility.  Then, you have to disconnect the coupler between the shaft and the steering box.  There are a couple of places you can do it, but the one closest to the firewall, above the rag joint, is going to make things easiest.  If it had a column shift, then you need to disconnect the connection to the shift cable or rod (I don't remember how the S10 does it).  Sometimes there is a flange or packing around the column where it passes through the firewall that needs to be dealt with.  If all of this is undone, it should slide right out.  Oh, and have you dealt with the airbag (if there is one)?