steering wheel puller

Posted by carla on July 22, 1998 at 15:34:59

hello, everyone,
i'm just now getting around to working on the steering of my '31, and needed to pull the steering wheel.
so,---since i didn't have the proper puller, i made up an "ersatz" version which seems to work alright.
i thought i'd list the dimensions here, in case anyone might be interested.
this is a "split ring" or "split collar" of aluminum which was roughed out, then split into two semi-circles, then clamped back together and drilled/tapped for 2 allen capscrews which clamp the two halves together.-- the location for these is optional, but clearance must be provided for the 3/8" tapped holes described below.
it was then finish-machined to 6" od (min), 3-9/16" id (-0 + 1/64), 1" thick (nominal).
the bore was then given a 11/16" (-0 +.010) radius on one side --this matches the underside of the steering wheel, and establishes the upper surface of the pull ring.
the underside was given a clearance cut for the spark and throttle levers---the shape of this cut is optional--i used a 1-1/8 ball-end mill, 3/16" dp approx., and placed the cut parallel to and 3/4" (nominal) from the split or parting line.
2 holes 3/8"-16 through were drilled/tapped on 5" (min) centres, through the 1" thickness of the ring---one in each half, 5/8" (nominal) on centre from the parting line.
this allowed the use of a common gear puller, with suitable bolts.
i used an improvised thread protector on the steering shaft, and, after applying a lot of torque to the puller screw, had the steering wheel jump loose with quite a "bang".
the steering wheel and the steering-shaft threads were unhurt.
hope someone can use this info.---
carla
p. s. this part really should have been made from mild steel-- i used aluminium only cos we happened to have it on hand.

Follow Ups:
Good description! Joe July 23, 1998 at 06:50:34(0)

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