I don't believe you need to remove any body parts to get the steering gear out, but it might be hard to thread it down between the engine and frame splash pans. All the bolts are reasonably accessible , but threading it out once it's disconnected would be a bit of a chore and might be easier with the hood removed.
A lift would be handy for sure. I don't know if it'll come out thru the hood opening as I removed mine after I had removed the whole front clip.


Kevin
1951 Chevy 3100 work truck
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1929 Ford pickup restored from the ground up. | 1929 Ford Special Coupe (First car)
Busting rust since the mid-60's
If you're smart enough to take it apart, you darn well better be smart enough to put it back together.