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Steering wheel blank
chrisf - 21/2/06 at 11:35 PM

I just ordered my new steering wheel, and I'm curious how one determines where the center of the wheel is located. My steering hub takes three bolts in a triangle shape, but the steering wheel does not have any reference points that I can see (the wheel is technically still in route from the UK). Still, if I'm off by a couple millimeters, it will feel strange. Any suggestions?

This is mine.

--Thanks, Chris

Avoneer - 21/2/06 at 11:37 PM

They would have pre-drilled it for you if you had asked!

Anyway, use the perimeter and find the centre of the circle - is it not just that easy or am I missing something technical?

Pat...

madman280 - 22/2/06 at 12:14 AM

You never mentioned if you were fitting a quick release or not. If so wait till you get the wheel. The center is usually marked on the back side. Most I've seen have a little center punch divot. Just use a compass to project the bolt circle diameter then use the q/r hub to find the bolt centers. Mine doesn't have a q/r....so i just for drilled for three 1/4-28 bolts on a 1.75" bolt circle...and made a plate welded on the steering shaft...same as a q/r just in case I decide to fit one later. Some q/r have more bolts though..but I usually get the 3 bolt ones--lighter

chrisf - 22/2/06 at 03:27 AM

Very good info gents. I never thought of either solution. Sadly, I know. Thanks!

--Chris

Syd Bridge - 22/2/06 at 04:21 PM

Are you sure the wheel is coming to you as a blank? The picture gives the impression of having a soft cover over it.

It's rare for a wheel to not have at least a centre spigot bore. Or did you order it that way?

02GF74 - 23/2/06 at 11:13 AM

quote:
Originally posted by chrisf
Still, if I'm off by a couple millimeters, it will feel strange. Any suggestions?



most production cars are outr by that much, so the answer is no.

Peteff - 23/2/06 at 11:33 AM

My old Mk3 Escort had a bent steering wheel for ages before I swapped it and the new round one took me a while to get used to.

madman280 - 24/2/06 at 02:05 AM

I work on newish cars at a dealer. I must drive at least 10 or 15 different ones every day. I have to do a bit of jockeying to get them to my work area so they get the steering spun from lock to lock a couple times before I'm done. Very few are perfectly centered from the factory. You won't hardly notice a half inch during normal driving. Same goes for them D shaped ones..they just fall to hand and as long as you ain't looking your hands don't mind.