New Steering Wheel

[Boyce]

I have an 86 Sierra C 30 single cab dually. It has the standard steering wheel OD 15.5 inches. Manual floor shift,non tilt column. From what I’ve read many owners want to go smaller with wheel. I actually would like to go larger,maybe 16.5 or 17. It is absolutely not needed except for aesthetics. I like the old school look of a larger wheel. Call it more truck like. Has anyone done this or am I the only weirdo in the group? I’ve been considering 69-72 wheels. Opinions? Advice? Psychiatrist referrals? Thanks!

 

[Shorty81]

I prefer stock steering wheels. But....I'm with you on larger wheels. More truck like!!

 

[AuroraGirl]

Does a larger OD help steering feel even easier? My Square once its warmed up is a dream to turn the wheel but Id imagine a truck with manual steering had a larger wheel?

 

[peats]

without a tilt column i think you will be making it tighter to get in and out. you must be pretty skinny

 

[rpcraft]

without a tilt column i think you will be making it tighter to get in and out. you must be pretty skinny

I was going to offer up the same info. You might be setting up a situation where you are no longer able to shift well or move around much (or get in the truck easily).

 

[Usmczo6]

I have a 88 v30 manual shift with factory wheel, I'm a pretty skinny guy and I have a tough time sliding my legs underneath the wheel as it is, what's the worst that could happen? Throw it on, see if you like it, if you don't put the old one back on

 

[AuroraGirl]

without a tilt column i think you will be making it tighter to get in and out. you must be pretty skinny

I guess I never thought of that but I do have clearance under the column yet. The cushion is worn a bit so that probably aids that fact. I prob wouldnt go bigger just for squeezing in because its hard to glide in without being slightly raised which needs a bit more room anyway. I might be one of the only people who has no issue with the notilt column and find it fits rather well and in a good spot. Im by no means the average driver or operator of a square though

 

[AuroraGirl]

Something I would like to eventually do is put a well placed grab handle. since i took off the running board and i have a shot-floor, I rely too much on yanking on the column to hoist in. I need to stop doing that. At least it isnt tilt.

 

[SquareRoot]

Most people develop a greater "circumference" as they get older. Eventually, that steering wheel and body parts compete for the same space. Physics says two objects cannot share the same space at the same time. However, some people can learn to adjust and find new uses for certain "body parts." For instance, my grandmother (nicknamed Dolly..) could drive that damn truck for miles hands free!

 

[SquareRoot]

@AuroraGirl,

I made these awhile back. I absolutely love them every time I drive the truck. Great for getting in/out as well as off-roading.

https://www.gmsquarebody.com/threads/a-pillar-grab-handles.28081/#post-540094

 

[CRM]

Hated the factory steering wheel the first time I got in the truck. Just recently installed a new smaller version. I like a little more room above my legs and a thicker grip for my larger hands.

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[Boyce]

Thanks for all the input. I too am concerned about being cramped without a tilt column. If I increase diameter by 1 inch, that would mean 1/2 inch extra below the wheel as 1/2 inch would be above current wheel. If I had tilt, it would be a no brainer for me.