Old steering wheel removal

[baytonemus]

How the heck do I get the steering wheel off of my old Crestliner? The shaft appears to be threaded only at the very end where the big nut holds it in place. The hub of the wheel itself appears to be a steel collar held in place with a key. I don't want to pry on the chrome cover behind the wheel because I'm sure I could destroy that pretty easily.



I've squirted some penetrating oil in around the shaft and have tried rapping the end of it with a hammer. I'm afraid to go too crazy, though. It looks to me like the drum cannot be removed from the other end.

Any tips appreciated. Thanks!

 

[baytonemus]

Re: Old steering wheel removal

UPDATE

I got the steering wheel off with a few more whacks on the center of the shaft. I guess the penetrating oil just needed a little more time to work.

Now, however, my problem is with the key which is a cylindrical pin about 3/16" in diameter. That danged thing is stuck in there! Wouldn't budge even with a vise grips. I think I'm going to have to drill it out.

 

[baytonemus]

Re: Old steering wheel removal

UPDATE 2

I was able to get the key/pin out cleanly with an easy-out. Here is a picture of all the disassembled steering wheel and shaft components with some labels. I thought it might be helpful to the next person who is attempting this job for the first time.

Now my question has to do with how tight I can expect the steering to feel. The whole column is bolted to a thin aluminum dashboard so it's never going to be rock solid, I suppose. There was a little play in it, though not too bad but I'd certainly like to improve it if possible. It seems like the two plastic or nylon split bushings are primarily responsible for that. They appear to be in OK shape, but I would guess they're worn down. They were thin to begin with. I don't suppose there is a source for these? I've search iBoats and done a little googling.

Another question would be how to lubricate them when reassembling - Vaseline, silicone grease, graphite, nothing?

Thanks.