Hello Vetteman61,

If you do not have a repair manual, an internet search may help find a general procedure that you can go with. My google 'Chrome' search engine offers AI Overviews for questions being searched. If you have access, you might type in: 'procedure for removing steering column shaft from 1931 chevy car'. AI Overview displays: 'Because the 1931 Chevrolet steering shaft is integral to the steering gearbox (they are a single, continuous unit), you must remove the entire steering column and box assembly to service it. [1, 2] The step-by-step procedure is outlined below:'

I have found AI to be very bad for instructions.  I've had success asking it questions to find keywords to search and verify online.  It will often make up things that are untrue.  I figured someone in the group would have done the process before.  I haven't been active much since moving to the new format.

I have only done it with the body removed but I do remember reading discussions about it on the old forum. Steering wheel, toe board, pitman arm, maybe the pedals off? I'll take a look at my 31 later today and see if I remember. 

Dave

Remove the front seat and the toeboard . Disconnect the drag link and pitman arm @ the strg box and the clamp bolts that retrain the gear box. Also remove the ubolt that holds the column to the dash panel. . The unit will need to come out from the interior. 

I looked at mine and taking the seat out is good advice but a lot of work by yourself. It is a pretty crowded spot with the pedals but you may be able to snake it out through them. Cover the bare end of the steering shaft with something that so it won't stain or hole your headliner.

Good luck.

This is easy. I've done it a few times. Less than an hour work. Disconnect the steering arm (good idea to mark where it mates with the shaft from the steering box). Unbolt the box but leave the bolts to temporarily hold the box in place. Remove the toe board. Remove the steering wheel then the u-bolt that holds the steering shaft. Then just pull the whole thing out. I don't remember ever having to take the seat or pedals out.

I Forgot to mention to disconnect the horn wire. 

It is possible to remove the steering box and column down and forward. The engine splash pans need to be removed which requires the exhaust pipe to be removed. Most often is is easier to take out through the passenger compartment. 3 window Coupes might be a wash as the distance in the cab is limited.