Well, this has been certainly exciting, because I finally had a chance to do something that I wanted to do for a long time.
A two-tone custom leather job on the steering wheel.
I cannot thank Rick enough for making my wish come true with this.
I have chosen the same set-up as Rick's, which is peforated and extra padded all around and matching red color on the top and bottom portion of the wheel.

Pictures didn't come out good as I hoped due to poor lighting condition and poor photography, so it is far better than pictured.






There was a slight set-back due to my fault but everything came out ok.
It feels good and looks good since the new Rick's steering wheel is slightly fatter and the workmanship of the leather job is quite excellent as you would expect from all of Rick's offerings so far.

Well, I will be shortly post some during installation photos, by the way excuse the poor quality this time.


[This message has been edited by 1Randyc (edited December 23, 2000).]

 

Randy,

That looks better than mine! I want it back!

Tell us about the do-it-yourself installation when you get a chance. I think it was courageous to remove the steering wheel yourself, what with the airbag and all.

 

The installation job isn't piece of cake but it isn't too bad provided that you have the right tools.

This involves SRS system so be extra cautious and gentle.

First disconnect the negative battery from the terminal and wait at least 3 minutes.

Locate the access panels on each side of the steering wheel colume and remove them. They come off easy.



Upon the removal of the left panel you will see the airbag connector. Take off from the cable reel and disconnect the cable as pictured.


You will be unscrewing the bolts called Tork bolt from each side using size T30. The bolt is clearly visible in the above picture


Unscrewing the bolts will lets you loosen and remove the center airbag assembly, handle it with care!


Sequence doens't have to be like that but I just put some numbers there to let you know what needs to be removed and touched.




[This message has been edited by 1Randyc (edited December 23, 2000).]

 

Disconnect the connectors where I put number 1, top gray one the bottom right black one.


Remove the center bolt numbered 2 and with using gentle force and some shaking, pull out the steering wheel assembly. You are left with 3 dangling connectors.



You need to remove 3 torx bolts number 3 to pull out the horn mechanism.



Turn to back of the steering wheel around and you need to remove 2 of the number 4 bolts to remove cruise control switches.

 

You will need to remove some number 5 screws and possibly some more(forgive me I blanked out, by then you can easily see what more you need to remove)


Oh S#@t, I guess you can do the above step before turning over the wheel to remove cruise control switches.

Remove the Steering wheel from the back cover and time to fit your new hot wheel!


Well, start assembling the parts back. Sounds easy but be careful putting them back and make sure all the connectors are securely snap back into the place holders. Careful handling the airbag assemblies and also be careful on screwing and unscrewing Torx bolts otherwise they can strip easily and you are in trouble.
Time to pray that air bag will not deploy upon reconnecting the negative battery and turning of the key, don't worry it won't but try stay clear you never know. Make sure you have the radio theft prevention code in handy so you can reactivate your stock stereo.
Get yourself a good beer and ask someone to pat your back for job well done.

Enjoy your new snazzy Rick's steering wheel.


[This message has been edited by 1Randyc (edited December 23, 2000).]

 

Randy,

As always, a fantastic post! You've provided what everyone needs to take off the wheel.

 

man, i just love your interior, and the instructions couldn't be any better! can u do my interior too

 

These instructions should go into the FAQ, a la "Removing the Steering Wheel." Moderators?