Can anyone share the secret curse word that will make the U-joint release the steering shaft?

I have removed the nut and bolt and driven a screwdriver into the gap to try to get it to let go, but so far, no luck.

Is there something I am missing?

I did mine just a month ago and felt the same way, I gave it a good soaking with A penetrating oil, let it set overnight, and used a square chisel and whacked it...three good whacks later, it started to budge, and it came out. I was careful not to damage the housing.
Tough to get a good angle, but the chisel was about 12" long and allowed for a decent swing.
Good luck.

If desired, you can leave the rack and pinion in place and simply remove the a-arms and crossmember if you're just replacing the bushings.

You can also unbolt the input shaft from the steering rack. It might be a little tricky working around the boot.

I really want to drop the whole thing as I will be putting on turbo tie-rods and a new puck.

The boot is in the way of unbolting it from below.

I think that I just need to pull the screwdriver out and substitute a chisel and use a bigger hammer.

Ken you may be in luck.
Did you get the new washers?
Let me know, If not I have them now I can drop you some.
Mark

Hey Mark.

Which new washers? I bought your steering puck awhile back, but not sure what washers your are talking about.

Thanks,
Ken

Ken did you get the joint soaked down with penetrating oil?
Its more the rust/corrosion on the splines rather than the spread on the split.
One of my Tool Whore secret tools is a piece of rebar with a polished end. That's what I use. You just have to get the bond broken.

The washers shown here (don't really look like washers). The ends bend up to secure the nut

Thanks, Mark! That does look like a must-have! Do I need one or two? Can you post a link?

Leave rack in car, remove suspension, it drops straight down.
Then pull rack towards front.
Take the steering shaft off the steering wheel first....it's some wired geometry you are fighting and losing to.

Hi Cary,

I really haven't had any time to revisit this since last weekend.

My car is not very rusty, and I don't see any rust in the shaft/u-joint, but I will go ahead and shoot some PB Blaster in there tonight and see what happens. Thanks!

You need 2 I haven't even listed yet but I can hit you up.
Mark

I feel like you are so right on this response, but I won't have an opportunity to try/respond until later this week.

Send them my way, buddy. You know that my credit is good!