How to remove steering wheel from '65 Alumacraft?

[Klipptastic]

Just got a great looking old, Alumacraft boat that needs some TLC...fine, it needs the whole shebang. Dash is rotted out, and I'd like to replace, but not trash any gauges, switches, etc, including the steering assembly.

Do I need to pound the steering wheel to pry it loose from the column, like every you tube video on the planet says to, or is there a trick you have found?

 

[ddrieck]

Re: How to remove steering wheel from '65 Alumacraft?

Easiest way I have found.... you will need a helper. Remove the center nut....apply pressure by pulling steady toward you on the wheel..... have you helper lightly tap on the center stud. Just be sure to not hit it off center and don't hit it to hard or you will mushroom the treads on the center stud. Also, be aware that it will pop off suddenly so be prepared for it. I have also left the center nut on a few turns to stop the wheel from coming off violently and going a## over teacup backwards.

 

[GT1000000]

Re: How to remove steering wheel from '65 Alumacraft?

My "trick" is to obviously first, loosen the center nut almost all the way out, and having spritzed penetrating oil on it before hand...is to get in a good position, and alternately grab the wheel at the 9 and 3 o'clock, then 12 and 6 o'clock positions, and start pulling, first left, then right, while applying good pressure towards you...after a couple minutes of this it should pop right off...99% of the time, it has worked for me...hopefully yours is not the one percent, in which case a steering wheel puller, cursing, beating, etc...may come in handy...
Good luck.

 

[classiccat]

Re: How to remove steering wheel from '65 Alumacraft?

I haven't had to pull many but the ones I have, I used a flywheel puller.

1st loosen the center bolt. There's never been a convenient place for me to put the puller-bolts so I wrap some chain around the steering wheel hub (behind the spokes) and put the bolts + large/heavy washers through the links. you may want to place a rag on places where you'll be making contact to avoid dings in the finish.