Hello all, I am getting ready to switch out my OEM 3 spoke steering wheel with a carbon fiber one from Gert. I plan on giving this a go myself and so I was wondering if anyone has a link or info on how to do this (need to switch the airbag over as well). I checked the archives and saw that several people have done this themselves, but I was hoping that someone could offer some instructions/what to do/ what not to do, etc.

Thanks!

BLK <img src="graemlins/bigok.gif" border="0" alt="[thumbsup]" />

 

Removal
1. Disconnect the battery and cover terminal or battery.
2. Remove driver's airbag unit. For this purpose, loosen the two fastening screws with a screwdriver for internal Torx T 30. Disconnect plug connection at airbag unit and at steering wheel (for horn).

Note: Replace fastening screws whenever they have been loosened. The airbag unit must always be set down so that the cushioned side faces upwards. If removed for an extended period, the airbag unit must be kept in a locked place. Observe the safety regulations.

3. Loosen hexagon nut and remove together with spring washer.
4. Turn wheels to straight-ahead position. Then mark the position of the steering wheel with respect to the steering shaft (for refitting). Remove steering wheel (in straight-ahead position). Note: To prevent unintended rotation of the contact unit (KE) when the steering wheel has been removed, the contact unit locks itself when the steering wheel is pulled back. Likewise, the contact unit unlocks automatically when the steering wheel is refitted.

Installation
1. Refit the steering wheel with the wheels in the straight-ahead position or in accordance with the marking so that the upper spokes of the steering wheel are horizontal. Caution: Do not trap the cable of the contact unit.
2. Fit hexagon nut with spring washer and tighten to 46 Nm (34 ft. lbs.) .
3. Install driver's airbag unit. Use new fastening screws. Tightening torque: Tightening torque 10 Nm (7.5 ft. lbs.)
4. Check horn for operation.

Be VERY careful of the airbag spring!

 

Loren,
WOW!!! Thank you so much. That was just what the doctor ordered! One last question, where can I buy new fastening screws? Is that something I need to get from my service department, or can I pick that up at a hardware or autoparts store?

Thanks again for the help!!! <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" />

BLK

 

Your new steering wheel may come with new screws... send Gert an email he may know (or will look). If not, definitely get them from Porsche and tell them for a "3-spoke" wheel.

Worse case reuse them. I do know folks that have... but I'd hate to have a loose airbag

 

[quote]Originally posted by Loren:
<strong>
Worse case reuse them. I do know folks that have... but I'd hate to have a loose airbag </strong><hr></blockquote>

LOL! I'd hate to have one too! I will ask Gert about them. Thanks again for all of your help!

BLK

 

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana,Tahoma,Helvetica">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana,Tahoma,Helvetica">Originally posted by Loren:
<strong>Removal
...
</strong></font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana,Tahoma,Helvetica">Hi Loren,

Any chance you could send me new links to these pictures above?

I'm going to replace the wheel on my 99 with a 3 spoke {or maybe I should get that GT3 wheel ... not sure yet} and those pictures would help I'm sure.

Thanks in advance and thanks so much for the info you have already posted here!

 

Loren:

you seem to be the know it all here on this board. What do you do if you don't mind me asking? (I am new to this board.)

Peter

 

Wow, this is almost a year old.

<img src="http://www.986host.com/albums/ToolPants/tools_air_bag_002.sized.jpg" alt=" - " />

<img src="http://www.986host.com/albums/ToolPants/03_trip20.sized.jpg" alt=" - " />