Steering wheel diameter?

I wonder if you went to a smaller wheel if that would affect how the truck handles.

If you got a smaller wheel, does mean that you have less turn of the wheel to back in or to make a turn? Would it be hypersensitive because a 14-in steering wheel compared to 20 if you move it one inch wouldn't that be a different movement than the large steering wheel moving one inch?

I get that you want to replace it with original or maybe a little smaller but those are the things I would question.

I know they sell them but is that legal to change to a tiny little steering wheel?

Okay last thing. Here's what gets me. If I was going to replace the wheel on my Freightliner I would get the exact same original Factory wheel because the Freightliner actually has cushion in the wheel and when you hold that wheel and go down the road it's very comfortable.

I see guys that replace it with hardwood Wheels and all that and why would you not want your hands to be on something softer and more comfortable?

I would think that has to be easier on you in the long run for sure.

 

18” is what I replaced my OEM Pete steering wheel with. It seems to be a fairly standard replacement steering wheel size. Three years in and it isn’t uncomfortable.

 

Where does your hand ride? That may play into it, personally i like my left hand a bit below center (about 235 degrees with 0 being straight up)

To make that comfortable, i prefer my steering wheel slightly off center (15 degrees to the left) and it rides on tge wheel and padded section (steering pad goes in about 3 inches on steel spoke) of the left spoke.

I had a wood wheel on a truck and could never find a comfortable location but it was like your wheel, all of the spoke was steel, all of the wheel was wood

 

There’s something tangible about holding a really nice, wood wheel. I like to feel the quality of it. It’s why classic, Italian cars typically have a Nardi wheel; it looks right, it feels right. Pure class. Wood is what I’d buy. Then, you could strip out the factory floor and install matching hardwood.



I wouldn’t hesitate to drop down in diameter. I don’t think there would be any adverse effects, unless you drive with your left elbow on the window sill; the reach would change.

I’d go for it. A new wheel will be a nice change, both, to look at and feel.

 

Look at your car!!! And they say truckers don’t make any money.

 

Does your existing steering wheel have an airbag? My friend changed the wheel in his truck.
When the ecm couldnt detect the air bag. It threw a code and derated him down to 5mph.
Hr wound up replacing his wheel with oem.

 

Haha. There was a time I could’ve afforded something with a prancing horse. But, sadly, those days are past.