uj steering rack

[Breaker]

I'm replacing my steering rack but the universal joint is stuck where it attaches to the rack.
There is not alot of space any ideas?

[rubjonny]

Just to check, you did completly remove the bolt right?  The rack has a groove in it so it wont come off when the bolt is still in there.  If you did, you'll need to pull the column out a bit, assuming its a MK2/3 Golf or Corrado or something:

1. Take the driver side dash undertray out, only a few screws
2. Remove the ign lock housing lower trim, 2 screws
3. Disconnect all the plugs to the stalks & ign switch
4. Remove the allen bolt from the bottom of the ign lock
5. Grab steering wheel and pull, column should come out a bit, wigglew the UJ in the bay and at the base of the column till it releases from steering rack

[Breaker]

I've  removed both bolts from the joint. It's just siesed to the spline 

[rubjonny]

I'd put the upper colum-> uj bolt back in and yank on the wheel once you have released the column as above, unless you can get a pry bar in there?  Try wiggling the wheel left n right and tapping a screwdriver gently inot the groove on the rack end of the UJ to spread it slightly