Sloppy Steering Wheel

As far as the "safety" bit goes.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/i-pulled-my-shaft-today.477058/#post-14489459

The slip joint can not be accessed unless the column is removed.

 

I agree, I feel like having a more firm steering wheel and better control of my truck is a lot safer than the telescoping steering wheel. Not to say its useless but I drive my truck a lot more than I get in front end collisions. *knock on wood tho*

 

I think it was more of a safety issue on the older cars and trucks with the gearbox mounted up on the frame rail which creates a long straight shot through the column.

On the taco the rack is behind the oil pan, not very far in front of the firewall with a couple u joints in the shaft.
So its not really the same straight shot and has more angles in it. I would guess it would take a hit to the firewall more or less to move it.
I don't think its 100% safe to remove, but having the truck change lanes for you on the highway without moving the steering wheel isn't 100% safe either

 

Dude yes its really not safe. I was in the carpool lane on the freeway with the divider to my left and an SUV to my right. I hit a crack in the road that caused my truck to swerve because of this f'in loose ass steering wheel and I tell you the lord was with me that day because if I didnt correct my steering I would've either hit that center divider or the suv next to me because potholes and bumps will make the truck fckin WANDER! its scary