I purchased a used steering column on Ebay for a $100 thinking I got a great cheap way to fix my turn signal stalk. I was even happy when it came and had a black steering wheel still attached to it. But there in lies the problem. The center allen bolt that holds the steering wheel in place is stuck in place and damn near stripped.
I don't have an impact gun and trying to get it with a breaker bar isn't working because I can't get the leverage I need. Any suggestions on how to get that bolt out and the steering wheel off without going to the trouble of attaching the steering column to the car first for rigidity or taking it a dealership to get off? Thanks guys.

 

Have one big friend (lumberjack, etc) hold the column.

Have another lesser-big friend (lumberjoe) operate the breaker bar with a 10mm Allen bit.

You hold the wheel, and let lumberjoe do the wrenching. If the Allen strips out and breaks loose, the lumberjack gets popped in the jaw by lumberjoe and then you have entertainment on your hands.

Seriously though, big friends. Much grunting.

 

Drill it out. Or retap it and screw it out.

 

Impact wrenches don't just increase torque to free bolts but shock them loose. Strike the end of the breaker arm with a hammer.

 

Heat is the easiest way to loosen the bolt. Get a cheap allen wrench and insert it into the bolt. Heat the allen key with a torch while it is in the bolt, conducting the heat to only the bolt. You may have to cherrry the wrench while the end is in the bolt, but it will loosen up without stress and release any thread locker that may be present.

Enjoy Woody

 

two great suggestions...heat or shock...

 

If it is a nice black wheel, ship it to me, and I will get it off and pay for shipping both ways for the wheel!

 

Find a nut that just fits on top without dropping over...weld that puppy..then you have the advantage of heat plus something you can get a socket on and turn.. Man I'm good...

 

I've been wary of using heat because I need parts of the steering column that have electrical components but I guess at this point I have no choice. If I can make the time this weekend I'll be giving it a try. If that doesn't work I may be taking you up on your offer MrMopar so I'll keep you posted. Thanks guys.

 

Seriously, if you are worried about messing it up, and it has a decent red or black leather wheel, then I will pay s/h both ways and disassemble it for the wheel. I have the tools to get it apart.