1987 k10 steering column help: UPDATE PLEASE READ

[89k5350]

ok so i took the rag joints out no problem, then i go to the shift link behind the brake booster and the coder pin wont budge at all. so then my brother comes to help acting like a master mechanic and brakes both ends off the coder pin i can still get a bite on the coder pin but it wont pull out.. its not cause im week im pulling so hard im just stripping vise grips and needle nose plyers. and for you that have done this you know its i little awquard to grab on to and try to pull. so now im at a stand still cause the coder pin is stuck. any tips? or suggestions?

 

[sweetk30]

you live in the RUST BELT

next step is never assume a metal part will pop out/off in a rust belt vehicle.

you will need to get the linkage off and up in a vise and then heat up the pin area . next with it glowing red or orange dunk it in cold water . this will shock the rust loose and help get the pin out. next time to drive it out with a specific punch size to the hole.

if you cant do this then try real hard and slow and steady to drill out the pin. not the best but can work.

its a pita but it will work for you. dont rush it or it will be worse.

 

[89k5350]

so i should disconnest it from the column some how if so how?

 

[sweetk30]

grind off the rest of the pin. lube it and pop out of bushing on arm from column and then work on getting it out and the hole open.

 

[89k5350]

i cant fit anything bigger than than a medium size pair of plyers in there i have a little rotary too should i try that?

 

[89k5350]

well torching it is not an option its a tight spot with wires and greese around. so today i think im going to try to fit my rotary tool in there with a grinder tip on it

 

[4X4HIGH]

Ok, I just read a post or two before realizing what you were trying to remove, it's called a COTTER PIN.

 

[89k5350]

thanks for the tip now my truck is fixed 4x4high great info!!!

 

[89k5350]

ok i got the old column out and im puttin in the new one tomorrow hehe you guys left like ten steps out