Late wheel on '83, more leg room, with pics

[speedracing944]

I just installed the late 944 steering wheel which I received from Chitown944. The wheel sticks out torwards the driver (me) about 1 1/2" - 2" more and the wheel is about 1" smaller in diameter. All this results in a wheel which is now closer to me and allows about 1 1/2" more leg room between the top of my knees and the bottom of the wheel.


Here is a pic of the clearance. keep in mind I am 6'3" and my knees almost touched the old steering wheel.



I did have to modify the black plastic piece on the back of the steering wheel. This black part has the mtal ring in it for the horn and a tall tab which I think operates the self canceling turn signal. I had to modify the tab height from 0.900" to 0.675" so It matched the old steering wheel. The black plastic part can not be swaped out because of where the wire for the horn is located. Take notice of the tall tab. This is what was modified.



For those bigger guys out there who has issues with steering wheel clearances this is an option to increase this clearance.

Let me know what you guys think.

Thanks again chitown944!

Speedy

[Tervuren]

My new '84 has the four spoke wheel as a factory option.

[Rrrockhound]

Speedy: How's the view of the gauges with the smaller diameter?

[speedracing944]

The view is actually better. The old wheel had the big center and the 3 huge spokes.
Here is an old pic I had.



Speedy

[Tervuren]

I agree- four spoke and early dash gives the best view of the guages I've driven.

[chitown944]

I was wondering when you'd install that sucker. The only question is how long will that steering wheel last with all the abuse it takes from all of those 90 degree turns you seem to have no problem making. Glad to see it makes your driving experience even more comfortable. GO SPEEDY!!

[Slam]

Nice mod. The 931/2 lozenge wheel works well, too, and the tang doesn't need modding. The extra clearance does make a big difference, eh? (Canadianism - sorry.)

[speedracing944]

I haven't driven it yet. I am awaiting a new altenator to come in. I can't wait to try it because my old 3 spoke wheel had 2 of the spokes broken and the wheel would move quite a bit.

I am not sure what my problem is. I have had to replace the steering wheels on both my 944 and my John Deere tractor. Both 3 spoke wheels had 2 spokes broken. Hmmmm I wonder if it is because I drive my tractor like my 944?

If only I had the guts to buy a Porsche Junior tractor.

Speedy

[chitown944]

Alternator, Speedy you are aware I have a nice parts car for you. I had a healthy alternator that woulda cost you next to nothing had you mentioned it. Hope she gets all fixed up so you can tear up your backroads again.