I just purchased an 05 silverado 1500 4x4 z71 extracab, and have read about the steering shaft problems, (which I now have). I would like to know if it is difficult to replace. I am handy and have sockets and wrenches, are there any specialty tools needed and would this be difficult to do. (This is a great website I have learned alot on here!).

Thanks

 

no, it's easy-peasy job, like 10 minutes. no special tools needed, maybe a step stool to reach better into the engine bay. you have to be quite limber to get under the dash to reach inner pinch bolt.
buy ISS from NAPA, they have very nice design that works longer than the others. OEM design, no matter who made it, will come back with that annoying clunk in some 6-8 mths.