I'm sure the stator needs to be pulled. The long stator has two notches cut in it which have spread apart and if typical, may have cracked. Even if it can be salvaged, it has to come out. I can't even see it from the steering wheel. Obviously, it could be pulled from the steering box but that may involve moving the grill. Will be fun to put back.
<span style="font-weight: bold">How do you get it out easy way?</span>