2002 GTI LE Replace Steering Cable

[jhendrickson]

Greetings,

I am attempting to replace the steering cable on my 2002 GTI LE. I have the upper portion of the cable removed and now I am trying to remove the lower portion of the cable. There is a plastic plug that the cable passes through the hull. Because the stainless steel shaft at the end of the cable extends 6" past the plastic plug, I don't have a socket that is deep enough to remove this plug.

Any suggestions on how to remove this plastic plug when the rest of the propulsion system is still installed and there is only a couple of inches to get tools back to the plug location?

Any suggestion on the best sealant to use when replacing this plastic plug?

Thanks for your input.
Jeff

 

[acooper]

If it's like a '03 GTX you simply need a large line wrench crows foot. Find a mechanic with a gigantic tool box, the guy who buys every Snap-on tool that is made, and borrow one.

I did mine last year? or maybe in 2006....but the size is like 7/8, 15/16, or maybe 1 inch....I don't remember exactly. It comes loose very easily, and gets tightened very gently!

Watch the order of parts removed for careful assembly, or get help if you are not absolutely sure of what you are doing! Hate to lose control at high speed, eeah?

My dealer was very hesitant to sell me the cable, and had me sign the invoice saying he was not responsible. Luckily I have about 40 years of experience working on motorized vehicles.