Toyota Forum banner

* * D.I.Y Steering Wheel Emblem Guide * *

32K views 21 replies 16 participants last post by  wheelmanfromhell  
#1 ·
I've asked and searched around a few forums to get an answer for this very simple mod. However the searched was a long one with very few leads. So I finally got some info from a few XR forum members but i didn't find a guide at all. So I combined them all together and did it for you if you've ever thought about doing it.

If you thought about getting rid of that chrome emblem, the wait is over.

Tools Needed

1. Painters Scotch Blue Tape
2. Very Slim Eyeglass Flat Head Screwdriver
3. Medium Flat Head Screwdriver
4. Very Sharp Knife
5. Ice Cold Beer of your Choice. (I had an Amber Dos Equis)
6. Music of your Choice (I listened to Bloc Party)
7. Patience, A lot of it!

INSTRUCTIONS

1. You need to mask the steering wheel around the emblem to prevent scratching.
2. You'll need to use the Very Slim Eyeglass to start prying the right side of the emblem to loosen it.
3. Once you lift it up a little, use the medium one to place it underneath to get a hold of it.
4. Then use the knife to slowly snip the tabs underneath each emblem.
*Note* There is NO glue under the emblem. There are 8-10 Tabs that secure the emblem which becomes a PITA.
5. Repeat the process going all the way from the outer then working your way to the middle.
6. The middle holds 3 tabs that are side by side. Be very careful when lifting it and using the knife to cut it off.
7. You'll finally remove the Emblem once the tabs are all broken.
8. Be really careful and patience as you go. You don't want to scratch the inner black area.
9. Don't pull too hard as this emblem can't be purchased again
10. Sand down the emblem with fine paper.
11. Prime, Paint, & Clear. Store to dry in a place free of particles.
12. Glue it back using Super Glue. Don't place too much on it to avoid it smudging from underneath.

** This is not an easy task as you must use some patience and demonstrate the ability to not get frustrated. **

Good Luck!


I painted mine Radiant Red to match my Truck. Next step, the 3 Silver Gauge Clusters.
:eek::
Image


Image


 
#3 ·
Good write up, and info that's been missing for a long time.
 
#4 ·
Thanks guys as I love the new look of the Emblem. I honestly think the pictures doesn't do it justice as its a nice dash of Red to match my truck.

This write up is to allow people to paint the Emblem any color their heart desires. Perhaps a Matte Black, Gloss Black, Radiant Red, Silver Streak, Super White, etc.etc.

Hope people appreciate it and enjoy getting rid of that chrome!
 
  • Like
Reactions: jmnach07
#6 ·
I know it sounds dumd...but you might want to put a BIG disclaimer about doing this at your own risk. It envoles tools and an airbag. Common sense is not so common. other than that, good job.
 
#7 ·
** DISCLAIMER**

UNPLUG the NEGATIVE on your Battery for extra Safety.

 
#9 ·
You said that you had to cut it off.....What's gonna happen to it if/ when the air bag is deployed? I think it will be a projectile aimed right at your face :eek:. That thing was permanently attached to the air bag cover, and I'm sure tested to make sure that it wasn't going to fly off. That's why there were so many tabs to cut. Personally, I wouldn't take the chance, but to each his/ her own....
 
#11 ·
You said that you had to cut it off.....What's gonna happen to it if/ when the air bag is deployed?

I'm not much to look @ anyways. So if and when it does happen. No biggie for me. :thumbsup:

 
#18 ·
Thanks for guide. I did this earlier today to match my gauges. Also would like to include a photo for those who would like to know where the tabs are.

Image


Image
 
#20 ·
I didn't use any tape. I have some scratches on the steering wheel. The edges of the emblem are jagged, but can sand to even it out. For the paint, I used Krylon Camouflage Ultra-Flat Black.
 
#22 ·
this is what i went with. a friend gave me it when i got the truck i just used a heat gun pulled the old one off and stuck this on there.
Image