GTR1999

I had installed a new rag joint recently and noted on PRNDL post that my rag jiont wasn't as flat as it should be. Jim Shea posted some dimensions 4.70" free length and 1.0-1.300" gap between the box and column. It sure looks like the column is pushed up but haven't had a minute to check it.The car was hit in front before I bought it in 1978 so maybe it's been like that for 30 years?

Question: How have you guys pulled the column down without damaging it? I tried by hand but it didn't move.

Thanks,
Gary