Steering Wheels
The steering wheel is one of the few parts of a classic you see and handle every time you drive. Choose wood, billet, black, and classic-style steering wheels in different diameters and spoke designs, along with adapters, horn buttons, horn kits, and quick-disconnect components for a range of car and truck applications.
Steering Wheels, Adapters, and Driver Fit
A steering wheel changes the driving position before it changes anything else. Moving from a 15-inch classic wheel to a compact 13½-inch design can alter legroom, gauge visibility, steering leverage, and even how close the driver sits to the dash.
That makes the wheel and adapter a single decision rather than two unrelated parts. POL’s collection pairs wood, billet, black, simulated-leather, and traditional GM or Pontiac-style wheels with adapters for different steering-column shafts and bolt patterns.
Adapter depth can reshape the setup further. Short nine-bolt adapters move the wheel closer to the dashboard, while quick-disconnect and application-specific adapters create different mounting positions and column connections.
Horn buttons, spoke designs, and finishes then become the final layer, allowing Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, Mustang, Jeep, and other interiors to keep their own character without losing sight of the dimensions that affect the driver most.
FAQ
How do I choose the right steering wheel for my classic car or truck?
Start with the steering column and determine which wheel mounting pattern and adapter it requires. Then consider wheel diameter, grip, spoke design, steering effort, gauge visibility, legroom, and the position of nearby controls. The right choice should work with both the vehicle's steering hardware and the driver's seating position.
What steering wheel sizes are available in this collection?
The collection includes wheels measuring approximately 13½, 14, and 15 inches in diameter. A smaller wheel can create more legroom and a compact appearance, while a larger wheel provides greater steering leverage. The best diameter depends on the vehicle, steering system, and driver position.
Will an aftermarket steering wheel bolt directly to my steering column?
Usually not. Many aftermarket wheels require an adapter that matches the steering-column shaft to the wheel's mounting pattern. POL carries adapters for GM-style columns and other applications, including Mopar and aftermarket steering columns. Check both sides of the connection before selecting the adapter.
What is the difference between a standard and short steering wheel adapter?
Adapter depth changes where the steering wheel sits in relation to the dashboard and driver. POL's short nine-bolt adapter moves the wheel approximately two inches closer to the dashboard. This can change driver clearance, but the turn-signal lever, column shifter, and other controls also need enough space to operate.
Will a smaller steering wheel make my classic harder to steer?
It can, especially if the vehicle has manual steering. A smaller steering wheel provides less leverage, which can increase steering effort during parking and other low-speed maneuvers. Vehicles with power steering are generally less sensitive to this effect, but diameter should still be selected with comfort and control in mind.
Are horn buttons and horn components included with the steering wheels?
It depends on the individual product. Some wheels accept or include particular center components, while others require the horn button or horn-contact hardware separately. POL also carries individual horn buttons and a dedicated 1955-68 Chevy classic car and truck horn kit. Check the exact wheel listing before ordering.
What should I check before ordering a steering wheel and adapter?
Confirm the steering-column shaft, wheel mounting pattern, required adapter, adapter depth, horn-button setup, and wheel diameter. Then check the driver's legroom, gauge visibility, turn-signal lever, column shifter, and dashboard clearance. If the vehicle has manual steering, also consider how a smaller wheel may affect low-speed steering effort.