Freelander 1 Help! - Dash removal - Solved

Hi again. 2004 TD4. Decided to start on the dash removal today so I can get to repair the damaged loom. Everything was going well but I seem to have a problem I don't know how to resolve.
After removing the drivers airbag and rotary coupler, next step is to slacken the clamp screw and remove the wiper/indicator assembly from the steering column.
Clamp screw removed and the assembly is loose but it won't slide off the steering column. It moves about 5mm and then stops solid as if there is something locking it on to the steering column.
Anybody have any ideas what I'm doing wrong and how to resolve it?
Many thanks in advance.

Isn't there someway of slitting them in two as I've seen plenty on sale as separate parts

damian46 said:

Isn't there someway of slitting them in two as I've seen plenty on sale as separate parts

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That's a good suggestion. If I can remove both stalks, I might have enough room to slide the dash over the steering column. I'll have a look tomorrow.
I just can't get my head round why the whole assembly won't slide off the column!
I've spent far too much time trying to sort it this afternoon!

It will be the lugs in the middle. Can't recall how I got mine off. Think I replaced the switches which are removable.

Will have a look on a spare part tomorrow.

andyfreelandy said:

It will be the lugs in the middle. Can't recall how I got mine off. Think I replaced the switches which are removable.

Will have a look on a spare part tomorrow.

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Cheers Andy. The lugs sit on top of the steering column to stop it slipping further down the column. As far as I can tell, below those lugs, the assembly is a smooth sided cylinder which should just slide on and off the column.
I could be wrong though, it's not easy to make it out in photos I've seen.
If I can work round it by removing both stalks, that looks like it might be the solution. I'll have another look tomorrow.

Jonny H said:

Cheers Andy. The lugs sit on top of the steering column to stop it slipping further down the column. As far as I can tell, below those lugs, the assembly is a smooth sided cylinder which should just slide on and off the column.
I could be wrong though, it's not easy to make it out in photos I've seen.
If I can work round it by removing both stalks, that looks like it might be the solution. I'll have another look tomorrow.

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I've sorted it! Thanks for all the advice.
It had frustrated me so much this afternoon, I've just been out with a head torch for another look. Think it was a case of brute force and ignorance! The assembly needs to be turned about 45° clockwise before it will slide off.
Back to it tomorrow, no doubt I'll be posting again when I get stuck!

Good job. I didn't remember it being a big problem.