How to Install a Custom Steering Wheel
A custom steering wheel is a common upgrade to a car or truck. Stock steering wheels usually are larger than custom steering wheels. In order to install a custom wheel on your vehicle, you are likely to need a hub adapter, which bolts to your existing steering column; the wheel then is attached to the adapter. Most steering wheels can be installed in an hour or two.
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Instructions
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1
Remove the horn pad or air bag from your existing wheel. The procedure will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Disconnect the battery cable that goes to the negative battery terminal.
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2
Remove the screws that secure the air bag to the steering wheel, if so equipped. The screws would be on the back of the steering wheel. Disconnect the wires that go to the air bag and set the air bag aside. Keep in mind that, as a rule, custom wheels do not have air bags.
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3
Remove the horn button or horn pad from the wheel, if the vehicle is not equipped with an air bag. Horn buttons are usually removed by carefully prying them off. Disconnect any wires that go to the back of the horn button.
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4
Remove the large center nut that holds the steering wheel to the steering column with a socket and a ratchet. You may need to use an extension on the socket to allow it to reach down into the steering wheel.
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5
Pull the wheel straight back to remove it. Most wheels will come off with a pull, though some may require the use of a steering-wheel puller, available at most auto parts stores.
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6
Install the steering wheel hub adapter that came with the custom wheel you bought by sliding it onto the steering column. Almost all custom wheels require the use of a hub adapter that installs on your existing steering column. The new wheel then is bolted to the adapter. Fasten the large nut that held the stock wheel in place on the steering column to hold the adapter in place.
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Install the custom wheel on the hub adapter. The wheel is likely attached with five or six Allen-head bolts that go through holes in the wheel and then thread into the adapter. Tighten the bolts firmly.
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8
Fasten the horn wires that went to the old horn to the new horn button. You may need to splice the wires onto the new horn button. Consult the directions that came with the custom wheel for specific instructions.
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9
Install the horn button or pad on the new wheel. If the new wheel is crooked when the wheels are pointed straight, you may have to remove it and rotate it on the steering column so it is pointed straight ahead.
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