Adjusting/aligning steering wheel?

[WankelsRevenge]

So the guy I got my car from put on an aftermarket steering wheel that is out of alignment. The car drives straight, just the wheel is turned at a slight angle when doing so. Is it a simple process to realign the wheel straight? I noticed a large nut in the center of the hub and thought this might be able to align the wheel straight if I losened it, but didnt want to take anythign apart untill I was sure.

[RETed]

The steering column is splined to the steering wheel center.
Easiest way that I know of is to mark the shaft and the steering wheel.

Tip...
When removing the steering wheel, don't back the center nut all the way out.
Leave it loose but threaded on.
Rock the steering wheel alternately side to side, and it should loosen.
You have to yank pretty hard.
Don't end up punching yourself in the face if you slip.


-Ted

[WankelsRevenge]

Haha, Ill try my best not to. Sadly I have to go back to work tomorrow so I might just have to drive with it crooked for a week till I get some more days off.

[infernosg]

Removing/reinstalling the steering wheel is the easiest way. Be careful with the indicator switch assembly behind the wheel as the plastic is old and brittle and will break if you look at it funny. This is especially important when reinstalling the wheel. I ended up crushing my indicator switch somehow and had to buy a new one.

There is another, more involved method that will likely require an alignment afterward but it will ensure you have equal turning circles in both directions. When I de-powered my steering rack I centered it be measuring the delfection to both sides and splitting the difference. When reinstalling the rack and pinion I centered the steering wheel as well to insure everything was centered as best as possible. I'd only advise this if you have the rack and pinion already out for some other reason.

[ElTeeFauci]

And get a steering wheel puller if you cant get it off by rocking it side to side. They're only like 15 bucks. DONT use a hammer!

[WankelsRevenge]

Originally Posted by ElTeeFauci

And get a steering wheel puller if you cant get it off by rocking it side to side. They're only like 15 bucks. DONT use a hammer!

Says the guy coming over to stick his plugs in my car

[ElTeeFauci]

thats right!

[ElTeeFauci]

Though I already knew it was you... I saw the thread on you not being able to unflood your car. On this and the "other" forum... lol.

[vrracing]

Another tip is to loosen the nut and break the steering wheel loose (but don't remove them) with the car parked and the wheels straight.

Then back it up a car length and move it back forward to its original position without turning the wheel. This helps ensure the suspension is settled with the wheels straight.

Then pull the wheel (without turning the shaft which shouldnt be a problem now that everything is loose) and put it back on straight.

Good luck. It can take a couple of attempts. RETed's note about making marks (use a fine line Sharpie or a spring loaded punch) is critical to reducing the frustration factor.