Removing Steering Wheel Cover

[aj_gilbs]

Hey Guys, I've been lurking for awhile. My grandmother just gave me her 91 DX with 52,000 miles. I drive a 2006 Matrix (with 56,000 miles, go figure haha) for my daily so this car is just to mess around with. I'm finishing up my mechanical engineering degree this spring and wanted something to show people I actually know things about cars. I'm also on the Formula SAE team at school.

Anyway, the steering wheel is so big and skinny in the Corolla that it bugs the hell out of me. So I ordered a Grant wheel and the install kit. I was going to install it tonight but can't for the life of me get the cover off. I'm trying not to break it too bad just in case I ever have to reinstall it. But anyway what are some tips?

I appreciate the help, I couldn't find anything specific about the cover searching. Once I get a couple more things done to the car I may start a build thread, too.

-Andrew

p.s. - Side question, which cars came with tachs? That's one of my next to do's.

[SCT]

The horn button (the center cover) comes off first. There are two screws located on the backside of the steering wheel, one on each side. For better access, turn the steering wheel 90 deg. Once you remove the two screws, the cover should come off. Then you're going to need a steering wheel puller to pull the steering wheel off the spline. Just keep note how the steering wheel was when you go to install the new steering wheel so it's not crooked when your car is going straight.

EDIT:

As for tachs, LE versions. They're not as many, but you would occasionally come across one from time to time. I'm currently looking for them right now to sell to whoever wants it. There's no mod needed to install them either!

[hairball]

There are phillips screws on the back side of the steering wheel. Undo those and the cover will fall in your lap (literally). Trust me, I just did mine! As for actually removing the wheel, those can be fun too! Actually, the wheel is the hardest part! But if you have a small (2 pound) hammer, you've got it made! Quicker and easier than the old fashioned pullers. Just unscrew the large nut and tap on the end of that shaft with your hammer (gently!) while pulling and it will come right off.

I keep thinking the same thing... I need a nice steering wheel. Please post pics after you replace yours!

[aj_gilbs]

ahh, well that would make sense. I guess I should have looked harder, I didn't realize there were screws holding it on. I'll be sure to post pics when I'm done.

And thanks for the info on the gauges!

[hairball]

This seems to happen quite often... SCT was thinking (and typing) the same thing I was, at the same time! Problem is, by the time I posted the pictures, SCT's post came up. Maybe I should learn to type faster than 45 wpm!