When it comes to upgrading your project vehicle, sometimes it can be a case of simplifying the most mundane items that can provide you with immediate satisfaction. It’s the little things that count, right? Modifying your project car or daily driver doesn’t have to soak up a lot of time or set you back a ton of dough either. In most cases, improving some of the most basic items like interior components can certainly transform its street appeal and leave you with a great driver.
In our case, we got our hands on a very streetable ’64 Chevelle in midst of a restoration. While everyone can identify with the factory, large diameter steering wheel, this ’Velle had other duties on the table. With all-new performance suspension, big brake kit, and sticky rubber, sawing at the wheel during spirited canyon runs was like steering a cruise ship.
After one too many glances at the factory steering wheel, we decided it needed to go. Not only would an aftermarket steering wheel from Grant offer a better connection to the driver with thicker grips and a smaller overall diameter, but it would complement the interior as well. From Grant’s online selection, we chose their Classic Competition wheel (PN 1076, $128) with a polished stainless three-spoke center and 14.5-inch overall diameter. Plus, it’s wrapped in leather and features a distinctive yellow band or top marker, providing for a quick reference point that allows the driver know exactly where the front wheels are pointed.
Since removing the factory wheel is a straightforward task, we’re going to get right to the grit and show how to install the new Grant wheel onto the bare column. It’s important to note, we started by pointing the wheels straight and disconnecting the battery to prevent the horn from shorting out or activating. From there, we used the Grant steering wheel install kit (PN 3196, $19), and had the new Grant wheel on and ready for action in less than an hour.
1. Beginning with the bare...
1. Beginning with the bare column, we started by installing the small tubular metal sleeve over the steering shaft.
2. With the new adapter hub,...
2. With the new adapter hub, we located “Top B” so that it would align with the top of the wheel. Next, we slipped the new adapter over the splined shaft. Note: The plastic horn contact tube may need slight readjustment to align properly through the hole.
3. Next, we inserted the plastic...
3. Next, we inserted the plastic sleeve and spring into the plastic horn housing. Then, we routed the supplied wire lead through the plastic sleeve and locked it into position. Note: Check to see if the plastic sleeve extends above the top (bolt) surface of the Grant custom hub. If so, cut the sleeve down so that it is 1/8-inch below the top of the hub.
4. The Grant wheel hub allows...
4. The Grant wheel hub allows the foundation for the new Grant wheel. We installed it over the adapter hub and routed the wire through the hole.
5. The aluminum GT adapter...
5. The aluminum GT adapter provides additional foundation for the Grant wheel. We placed it over the hub and locked down the three supplied bolts with a 7/16-inch socket to 10-12 ft-lb.
6. Next, we reinstalled the...
6. Next, we reinstalled the steering shaft nut and tightened it down approximately 25-30 ft-lb.
7. Before the Grant wheel...
7. Before the Grant wheel was installed, we connected the lead wire for the horn to the terminal on the back of the horn button. Then we installed the horn cap to the wheel.
8. The final steps included...
8. The final steps included fastening the Grant wheel to the adapter plate using the five-supplied Allen headed bolts. From there, we reconnected the battery to make sure the horn worked—it did. With the new Grant wheel installed, we have a more modern-looking interior and expect improved road feedback during spirited excursions. CHP