Removing lower tube of steering column without scratching?

[LovetheA's]

I thought that I would ask some of the seasoned mechanics on here how do I remove my steering column by myself without scratching or scraping the bottom of the tube when pulling it through the fire wall? I've taken out steering columns before but usually would have to repaint or touch up the bottom of the tube after removal. I'm working by myself and was wondering are there any tricks to prevent this and protect the painted bottom of the steering column?

Carl

 

[mopowers]

You can always wrap the tube with a couple layers of masking tape.

 

[65Val]

I wrapped a nice soft terry-cloth towel around the column to protect from scratching. I removed the column with the firewall plate attached...leaves a bigger hole.

 

[DNasty777]

I pulled it up in to the car and out. Seemed to work, but I wasn't worried about scratching as I was rebuilding it.

 

[Syleng1]

I've coated it with liquid dish detergent. Acts as a lubricant that can be washed off. Just go gently.

 

[LovetheA's]

I've coated it with liquid dish detergent. Acts as a lubricant that can be washed off. Just go gently.

Thanks everyone for the advice.