So I'm doing a dashboard swap and I'm currently in the process of removing the steering column, which has been the hardest part.

I'm having trouble with step 6.


The steering wheel was straight before I removed it (wheels are pointed straight) and the bolt is on the top just past the joint. Any tips on removing it? It's a 10mm bolt, and it is on there super tight. I am using a smaller socket wrench because a longer one won't fit in there.



Here is what it looks like. The socket wrench is bent at an angle (it is bent at an exaggerated angle in this pic) to make room for my hand as well as the required space for motion.

 

If you dont have enough leverage to break it free in that orientation, just put the steering wheel back on and rotate the column so that the bolt faces down. Break torque on the bolt and rotate the column back in the center position.

 

Thank you. I'll try that and let you know.

 

As soon as the steering wheel is free to turn, be very carefull to NOT TURN it.
More than 1 full turn, either direction from neutral, may damage the steering cable reel = expensive.
Don't ask why I know.......

 

...which is part of the airbag system. Sometimes called a clockspring because although its actually an electrical cable, its coiled and resembles a spring inside a clock.

So not something you want to screw up.