Too late to buy part from dealer.
My part from Arizona should arrive within a day but i will look at it and see if it looks beefy enough.
My understanding is that are no aftermarket couplings available, only OEM. We'll see.
I took a better look at the coupling from underneath the car and it looks like I can loosen the coupling bolts (2) which are set (Allen) screws.
Then I should be able remove gearbox bolts (3) from inside fender well and move gearbox enough to remove coupling.
The Pitman arm may have to be removed also.
I will evaluate that once I start.
The tip about spray painting the gap is a good one.
When I have completed the job I will chronicle my experiences on the forum.
Now I have to actually do the work!!
Thanks for the help.
Kraig