Steering wheel install

[CPTom21]

I just bought my first boat!! 14' Starcraft. Great shape except she could use a paint job(which could wait til next Spring), but what I'd really like to do now is replace the steering wheel she has. It is hideous, and if I were to keep it I would need to paint it anyways. 2 questions then; should I get one the same size or would I be able to go a bit smaller(my Dad had some safety concerns with that). Also should it be an easy switch out??

Thanks,
Tom

 

[Triton II]

Re: Steering wheel install

Hi Tom, congrats on your first boat. Most runabouts have 3/4 morse taper steering wheels. It's easy to change the wheel if it hasn't corroded itself onto the taper of the column. Most have a cap in the centre of the wheel which you may have to pry off, and under it there should be a nut. Undo the nut and get a three arm puller. Hook each arm under the spokes of the old wheel and wind in the centre stud of the puller until she pops off. If you don't have a puller then you may be able to tap her off from behind, but it's a nightmarishly slow and painful way to do it. You should find a D-shaped key (the morse key) to stop the wheel rotating on the column. If it's in good condition, then it's OK to reuse it, if not, most repair shops will have a suitable replacement. When you get the new wheel, fit it and the morse key and tighten the nut gently until she seats properly. Put in your new centre cap and you're done.

TII

 

[CPTom21]

Re: Steering wheel install

Thanks. I didn't expect such a detailed response, so thank you.

-Tom