I just rebuilt the steering in my 1989 Craftsman II, GT. I am not sure if all of the steering system are the same, but both my 89 and 96 have an aluminum casting that supports and retains the steering wheel. I found that the casting had oxidized and was frozen on the steering shaft. I ended up using a small wheel puller to remove the piece. I am sure a puller could be fabicated easily. Make sure you use some penetrating oil before starting the removal process.
By the way what did you get in the steering kit? I expect you got a couple of nylon bushings. One of the problems with this system is the upper bushing slides up, they only use a plastice clamp to keep it in place. I ended up cutting a slot in the steering shaft on the lathe for an e-clip. I think this will work better to keep the bushing in place. Oh, while I was at it, I also added 3 grease fittings so I could lubricate from time to time. Right now the system is working well.