I want to replace the steering wheel on my '06 294 Pro XL, but I have been unable to get the old wheel adapter off the shaft. I almost ruined the original wheel and adapter in my failed attempts. I have a bolt on puller, but the screw size on the 294 is 10-32...not exactly what I would call "stout" enough to pull on. Any suggestions from the more experienced? Also, I notice the adapter is longer than on other wheels I've replaced. Are different length adapters available?
The steering wheel itself is only held on to the steering column with six machine screws. Removal of those six screws and the wheel just falls off. The adapter is a keyed tapered shaft and a wheel puller is the preferred tool for removal of that part.
I would think you should not have to remove the adapter from the steering shaft, just the steering wheel from the adapter.
We don't know what you have without seeing it but with the right steering wheel, this should be a simple job.
Post a pic, someone might be of more assistance.
Thanks, BigOne. You are correct with regard to removing the six screws to remove the wheel only. However, the stock Stratos steering wheel uses very small screws (10-32) compared to the replacement wheel I'd like to use (Schmidt), which uses larger diameter/thread size mounting screws, which in turn will require the use of a different adapter. I will need to use the puller, as you suggested; just concerned the small screws may not be strong enough to successfully pull the adapter.
I don't see where the 10-32 screws have anything to do with a wheel puller. The wheel puller will have its own threaded screw that will push against the top of the steering shaft and the arms will go under the adapter.
I have tilt steering and the helm is different than the non-tilt helm but the shaft the wheel attaches to should be the same as the non-tilt helm.
I have actually driven a cold chisel (which is tapered) between the adapter and the helm which push that adapter off. The adapter is wedged on but not really that tight. Once you pop the seal, it will come right off.
Is drilling and tapping the holes in the original adapter an option?
Correct again on the puller, except that the space between the adapter and the base of the helm is too narrow to use the "claw" type. Since this is hydraulic steering, I'm not sure I feel comfortable with the chisel. I'll need to use the bolt on type puller...but I may be able to drill and tap a larger bolt size in the adapter as you suggested. Thanks again, BigOne.
The gap is small on mine also, that is why I used the chisel. I have hydraulic steering also but with the tilt helm, there is the tilt assembly between the hydraulic unit and the wheel. Looks like you don't have much of a choice. Those 10-32s might be stronger than you think, 32 threads/inch is a lot of thread. Constant pressure and tap adapter with a hammer should break it loose.
Guess I wasn't a whole lot of help but good luck with this, you will get it.
Let us know how it goes.
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