I've run out of adjustment threads on the right hand outer track rod, and I'm pretty sure the steering wheel has been put on with rack off centre at some point in past.

 

Removing the airbag clips is proving very awkward. I can line up the hole ok and see the clip, but when I lever up on it the tool is pressing down on the plastic shroud on top of the column, so I can't lever enough to release the clips for fear of cracking the plastic.

 

First thought was to remove the upper shroud, but unlike the Mk 1 there are no screws at bottom of shroud holding it on.

 

Any tips please for either releasing the airbag module, or removing that plastic shroud?

 

Thanks!

 

 

Have you looked at ebay listing images of what the guts of the wheel and airbag look like separately? 

I found that useful to work out best angle to lever etc.

 

I've got some pics I can probably find of a face-lift mk1 which may be similar or same.

Just have to find...

 

Finding or making an optimal length tool also helped. Stubby flat screwdriver with sharpened tip to get in behind/under the steel wire loop rings a bell.

 

I can see the clips fine using a mirror, but can’t lever them outwards without pressing on the column shroud, trying different length tools.

 

There’s a YouTube video of removal on a Mark 1, but the access hole is different - circular and plenty of clearance from the shroud.

Just came across this video, where the upper plastic shroud just unclips so my feeling that it would help to allow a better angle for leverage on the clips seems correct! I'll give it another go over Easter.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ypKigPtcP4

heres the clips  with the air bag removed....

 

 

Thanks! Makes it much clearer. I’ll try with upper shroud removed and bear this in mind.

Not sure if it also helps, but I made this very short video intended to show the movement required to unclip the retaining wire. In the absence of the wire, on removed wheel.

 

That’s brilliant Pete thanks. I’m certain with your video and removing that plastic piece it should be a cinch.