Steering shaft removal (Early car)

[roadsterdude1600]

I am trying to pull the steering shaft on a '66 for body removal. After breaking the bolt at the steering box (of course) I did open the gap enough to free the shaft. I pulled the wheel and surround and the big bushing at the top of the steering column. Took off the four bolts on the firewall side (this is an early car remember) I attached a slide hammer to help me pull the shaft up and out, but no joy. I can move the shaft out and back about 3/4 inch, but it will not slide out. I see nothing that would keep it from just sliding out. What am I missing? Anyone done this and know the "trick"? The body mount with the 4 bolts does not seem to want to fall down the shaft as it looks like it should. This is where the bind is I am guessing. Experience??

[Nissanman]

From memory, I think I used either a large flat blade screwdriver or a cold chisel to open up the slot in the uni-joint to free up the steering "spear".
Remember, the splined end of the shaft has a flat ground on it so that the lock bolt holds it captive even if the bolt is loose.

You can see the "flats" in the above parts explosion.

If I read your issue correctly, you will need to remove what is left of the bolt to allow removal.
Each end of the uni-joint has a fastener with the same design: a flat where the bolt passes over a splined shaft.

[roadsterdude1600]

Right you are. I was pretty sure that what remained of the bolt was not interfering and that the gap was totally opened, however after getting some vice grips on the bolt end and finally working it out the shaft is free. Great forum with a depth of "been there" knowledge. Thanks Nissanman!

[spl310]

The bolt has to be removed iirc.