Just don't break the tip off your screwdriver. Break it off someone else'.

 

thanks for all the advice. pretty easy job in the end. a few tips for anyone else doing this.

1. the bolts that tighten the steering u joint (theres 4 of them, 2 per u joint) don't need to be tightened very tight. just snug. i believe this is an aluminum u joint and the threads can strip easily
2. to take the bottom u joint off (the one connected to the steering box) just loosen the bolt connected to the steering column all the way out, use a screwdriver to loosen the fitting and pull up towards the column. Then lift the column and slide the u joint off.

15 minute job.

 

may consider throwing a few pieces of masking tape across the steering wheel/dash to help keep it from turning, if it turns even a little bit while the steering is disconnected your wheel will not be straight and it can be pretty difficult to line up at that point.