Help on removing the Steering "collar"

[2Gunz]

Im using the term collar for lack of a better one.

Basically I would like to remove the area that is just after the Steering wheel and before the shifter.

The metal shell that holds the turning signal and the Geer position indicator.

It almost wants to come off.

however there is what looks to be a bearing set that is around the steering wheel shaft.

Does the whole shaft need to come out?

Or will the bearings come off the shaft if I try harder?

Thanks in advance.

Oh and if anybody has a diagram showing this that would be awesome.

Later