van column intermediate shaft help

[Vortech]

I am in the process of replacing the column in my truck and have a question with regards to using the Universal joint instead of the standard column coupler on the intermediate shaft. The steering column side is 3/4" 36 spline. The intermediate shaft side has a pin that you would hold 2 square bearings ind a spring with loads of grease. If I want to replace that grease coupler with a joint, do I need to cut the shaft down to the DD portion? Or can I just knock out the pin and remove the sleeve and use a 3/4" smooth u-joint?