Steering gearbox from steering column - newbie question

[big31]

Greetings again forbarn.

From my last post I've decided to rebuild/replace my steering gearbox. I have Les Andrews book and a 1931 closed cab pickup.

I have every living screw/bolt/nut removed from the gearbox, but I cannot seem to slide it off the shaft as easily indicated by Mr. Andrews. Do you have to remove the steering wheel to get this apart?

Right now, I have about 3/4" where I can pull the gearbox away from the column. Then it stops cold like it's stuck somewhere. Only thing I can think of is the steering wheel.

Yes, I know I could make my life easier if I removed the starter for some room. Any suggestions on how to remove the steering wheel would also be helpful if that is indeed what I am to do.

(the steering wheel is on their like ... well its on their really really tight.

Thanks