Steering Wheel Install

Here is a great way to update an older car's interior for a small amount of money in a short amount of time. A new steering wheel is fairly easy to install and doesn't require a lot of expensive tools to get the job done. And it doesn't take a lot of time to do the change. There are several steering wheel styles to choose from, everything from the old Banjo wire steering wheels to the more modern spoke and woodgrain wheels.

Full Circle
While there are many wheel companies out there, Grant Products is the largest manufacturer of custom steering wheels in the U.S. for all types of cars and trucks. The company has an automotive and racing heritage that began in 1922 with its founding by Gerry Grant. Over the years, Grant has sponsored many types of racecars, including a record-setting Indy 500 car. He's also one of the original sponsors of the prestigious 200 MPH club. Many of today's racecars and boats, in all motorsport venues, race with a Grant steering wheel.

A Round or Two
To get started on the installation, point the car wheels straight ahead and disconnect the car battery. Next remove the horn button or ring on the stock wheel so you can see the large nut holding the old wheel on. (Usually there are two screws on the back holding the horn ring and center cover on.)


Now remove the large nut holding the wheel to the shaft. Mark the shaft to indicate the location of the top of the wheel. Next you will need a small inexpensive wheel puller (available at most auto parts stores) to remove the old wheel.


If a puller is not available, you may improvise an efficient one to do the job. By drilling two holes of the proper size in a short steel bar and using two screws of the proper length, you can tighten them and pull the old wheel very easily. Then simply reverse the procedure and you'll have a new steering wheel in short order, giving your resto project a shot in the arm.