Removal of late spec. Mk2 splined steering wheel adaptor and ignition assy

As above, I'm trying to remove the complete ignition assy (barrel, switch and alloy housing) from the steering column. I've removed the cap head clamp bolt, and now the assy will float along the axis of the column but won't come off due to the splined adaptor / spacers and top bearing.

I've tried a bearing puller on the adaptor but there's not really enough of a lip for to get any purchase. Does anyone have any ideas? It's soaking in WD40 at the moment in an effort to free it up a bit.

I'm assuming that once this is off the whole ignition assy should just lift off?

Cheers

 

You need a puller like this to get under the collar to pull it off, they can sometimes be a real pain to come off. Yes you need the collar off to remove the switch assembly.
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/GEAR-PULLER-BEARING-SEPARATOR-KIT-14pc-splitter_W0QQitemZ180340067945QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_Hand_Tools_Equipment?hash=item29fd1b0e69

 

I was just about to suggest the mole grips idea too. This is how I've always done it and it always works.

 

iVE GOT A CUSTOM MADE TOOL HERE FOR THA...oops caps..!

Custom made tool here for exactly that copied from the VAG one.. I'll get a pic up in a bit!

If enough people want them I could look at getting a bunch machined up? Could be useful to someone?

 

Thanks for all the responses

I'll have another dig around the workshop tomorrow to see if the old chap has a proper bearing separator lying around. Failing that I'll try the mole grips..

Thinking a bit of correct ID tube cut in half and secured with cable ties / mole grips might work with the puller too.

Don't really want to have to buy tools to do this job since the parts I'm pulling to bits are hardly worth a lot..

Cheers again