WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Mountaineer and 2004 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:
Removing the steering wheel without using a puller can damage the column bearings.
Fig 1: Removing Steering Wheel
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Use the special tool to remove the steering wheel.