steering wheel

[mn1972f100]

Is a special tool needed to remove the steering wheel so you can access the shifter rod for replacement? I can't get that thing off for the life of me.

[MadJoe]

Yes, you need a wheel puller. Or if you're crafty you can try to fashion one out of what you have lying around.

[mn1972f100]

What about the 1" (guessing) nut that appears to be holding the wheel in place. I can't get it to budge, or find the correct size socket to get it off.

[sargentrs]

The nut is either a 15/16" or 1" socket. It just unscrews like any normal nut but they are torqued on so take a little OOOMPH!

[sargentrs]

BTW, do yourself a favor and borrow a steering wheel puller from your local parts store. It's just plain easier if you have one.

[Madman]

BTW, do yourself a favor and borrow a steering wheel puller from your local parts store. It's just plain easier if you have one.

I've seen wheels crack from improper pulling. I agree, either borrow a puller or buy one, they aren't that expensive in the larger scope of things.

[71Fe2O3]

The nut is 15/16 and rather tight. An impact gun makes short work of it, but a long-handle ratchet will also work, and give you some exercise. A steering wheel/harmonic balancer puller, either purchased (they are handy to have and not very expensive) or borrowed from your local auto supply is the right tool to remove the steering wheel without damaging the wheel or shaft. One thing I have found, with two different steering wheels, is that the threaded holes in the steering wheel that you will screw the puller bolts into had poorly formed threads and required tapping in order for the bolts to gain sufficient purchase to pull the wheel.