Is the steering coupler really necessary?

A header tube on Aaron's new 360 interferes with the steering column coupler that connects to the power steering gearbox input shaft. The last thing we want to do is cave in the side of the tube to make room for the coupler - it would require approximately 3/4" for decent clearance.

Has anyone had this similar problem with headers and did away with the stock coupler? I've been looking at U-joints, like those used on custom hot rods. One end would be splined to fit the gear box shaft, and the other end would be smooth, so it could slip over the steering shaft and get welded into place. I believe the smaller connection would then fit past the header tube.

Ideas or suggestions are welcome,
Jerry