removing 34 Ford column drop from tube

[corndog]

I need some help on how to remove the column drop on a 34 Ford steering column...and I dont have a key to the ignition switch. I have removed the one "headless" bolt that holds the two halves together. It is loose now but wont slide up or down on the tube. I am sure it is still hooked to the steering shaft somehow and that what I need to know. How do I free it up from the shaft with out ruining anything or cutting the shaft. Thanks in advance for any help. I can provide pictures if needed. Paul

 

[TerryOH]

The column tube has a oblong hole for the lock bolt to enter the tube. Look inside the column tube to see if part if the lock bolt is still retaining the drop in this hole. You either have to remove the lock cylinder (best: by removing the small retaining pin on the bottom of the drop) or depress the center of the lock bolt (spring loaded) with a rigid wire, then you should be able to get it to move on the column tube. If the drop is locked you will have to remove the lock cylinder or cut off the column, because the lock bolt will be extended into the column too far to remove the drop.

 

[JM 35 Sedan]

I usually lightly tap a very small steel wedge into the slot on the drop near where that headless bolt was located. A small flat blade screw driver will also work as a wedge.This will help open the collar part of the drop slightly allowing it to slide more freely off the column tube.

 

[Kurt in NJ]

If it is in the "locked" position you need to unlock it before it will come off
without a key you will have to remove the pin that holds the lock cylinder in, remove the lock cylinder and move the locking shaft to the unlocked position--then the above mentionede methods will allow the assemble to slide off

the pin can be drilled and tapped for a small screw to pull it out

 

[earlyv8]

FWIW
I take a thin piece of sheet metal, place it in the slot and use a 5/16" fine threaded bolt screwed in the threaded side of the column drop. When you tighten the bolt it will push the sides apart making the drop easier to remove. Be careful of too much pressure as you do not want to break the drop.
But you need to retract the column lock plunger to allow the drop to be removed from the tube.
JM2cents.
Jack