Steering wheel question

[halfmoa]

I have a 1972 Starcraft Super Sport and I'm wondering if anyone can tell me about the process of replacing the steering wheel. I'm going to go with a smaller diameter so I can actually SIT in the drivers seat. I popped the cover off of it today and it looks simmilar to an automotive wheel minus the puller holes. Is this shaft splined, shear pin, woodruff key or what? How do I remove it? I don't exactly need anyone to draw me a crayon map with step by step instructions, I've replaced steering wheels on autos and tractors but I'm kinda stumped that there's no puller holes and I don't want to just go tearing into a 40 year old sterring assembly, especially considering it's working!

Thanks guys,
halfmoa

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: Steering wheel question

Hey Half..

Woodruff key it is!
I actually had to use a 3 jaw puller to get mine off...You may get lucky and be able to use a BFH

 

[airshot]

Re: Steering wheel question

The way I have done it in the past, is to take the nut off and turn it over and thread it back on until the nut is flush with the threaded stem end. Then use a pc of brass or alum and lay it on the nut/stem and smack it hard with a hammer. This will usually break the taper loose and the wheel will be loose, unthread the nut and remove the wheel. Good luck

Airshot

 

[halfmoa]

Re: Steering wheel question

Thanks guys! I'm replacing the dash panels on the consoles now and I'm gonna have to pull the wheel to get the drivers side panel off...half threaded nut, BFH, and some PB Blaster to loosen things up should do.

 

[MichaelP]

Re: Steering wheel question

^^^^^^^That's it, just pull up on the wheel when using the BFH.

 

[heyyou325]

Re: Steering wheel question

Sometimes a small pry bar between the back of the wheel, and whatever you can pry on. Haven't replaced on my Starcraft yet, but on my Crestliner. I just took the cotter key out of the nut, and pulled. course I use graphite when I put them back together. Course a couple sticks of dynamite might help loosen it up first.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Steering wheel question

Whacking the slightly loosened nut with a hammer while pulling up in the wheel works great.

 

[halfmoa]

Re: Steering wheel question

I soaked the assembly with PB Blaster last night and it came right off today! No BFH required! Now I need to find a retro replacement! Suggestions!?!?