I removed my steering intermediate shaft (I think that's what it's called), in order to put in my headers. Removed a nut and bolt from the back firewall end, then a bolt from the front of it, which allowed me to pry the collar backwards off the splines and remove. Now i'm trying to force it back onto the splines..... I have nothing to pry against, so things aren't looking good. Is there a trick to this, or should I persuade a yard ape to muscle it back on?

Use a rubber mallet, just make sure it's lined up right.

hmm, there's nothing to hammer on though...

Hammer on the disc by the steering box at an angle.

I just did this and what I did was when shaft was off, took it apart and cleaned it and then greased it slightly. Bolted the top bolt (near the firewall) and then slowly worked it over the splines. Takes time and muscle but it worked for me.

I use a large chisel as a prybar. Wedge it along the frame and apply a small amount of torque and it slides right on.

i put the nut and bolt on over the steering column first. used a chisel and a hammer to slowly wedge it up there, use lube as well, makes it 100x's easier. for the other end i used the same rubber mallet and just tapped it slightly remember there's a flat spot on the steering box on the bottom and the bolt must be removed completely to slide onto the gear box.

ok, so here's a tip: when the steering shaft is disconnected, and you lean on the tire, it'll turn. So when you put the shaft back in, it won't line up. duh! I didn't notice that on the splined part on the steering box, there's a flat spot... No wonder I wasn't getting anywhere....

but yes, the grease did help (plus it's something I should have done anyway...)
Thanks!

glad to have helped man. if you ever get to chicago we'll grab beers over it.

Count me in on the beers!!!

Glad it worked out for ya!!

haha took me AWHILE to figure that out...your not alone

ditto