Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: is there a trick to removing the steering wheel?
Posted by In2Deep on 02/27/09 - 5:38 PM
#1
1983 outrage 18,am I missing something? I removed the nylock nut and washer and it wont budge,how do remove the key? Ive researched the forums and understand Ill need to either have to utilize a hammer or rent a puller,but how do I remove the key? Thanks. I just wnat to refinish the aluminum collar,it looks hideous.
Posted by Joe Kriz on 02/27/09 - 5:45 PM
#2
Put the nut back on slightly.
Get a helper to hit the nut while you are pulling with both hands on the wheel.
it also helps to soak the shaft with a penetrating liquid. Even WD-40 might work.
The key should stay in there until the wheel is removed.
Posted by bottomfish on 02/27/09 - 5:46 PM
#3
The key comes out after you pull the wheel. Soak with wd-40 or corrosion block or some other release agent and pry on the bottom with a soft piece of wood and tap shaft with a hammer. Or better yet borrow a puller. You won't damage anything with a puller. The key is to be patient. If you rush it you could damage it. Be sure to regrease it when you reinstall. Makes pulling in the future much easier.
Posted by In2Deep on 02/27/09 - 6:44 PM
#4
thanks guys, I just didnt want to break anythig.
Posted by Phil T on 02/27/09 - 7:24 PM
#5
While WD-40 works, a great penetrant is PB Blaster or Kroil.
Posted by ioptfm on 02/27/09 - 7:47 PM
#6
It sometimes takes a lot of patience and a lot of penetrating oil......and by the way...........when pulling on the wheel be prepared for it to pop loose..........it hurts when that thing hits you in the mouth..........yep, experience and lesson learned :P
Posted by drandlett on 02/28/09 - 4:59 AM
#7
The one thing I do want to add is no matter how you try to remove the wheel, make sure you leave the nut on the shaft a couple twists.
When the wheel does decide to leave the shaft it could do so with incredible force as Tom mentioned! Leaving the nut on a few turns will prevent it from going real far.
I was removing drums from a Willys Jeep with a puller and learned the hard way to leave the nut on just a few turns!
Good luck
Posted by HarleyFXDL on 02/28/09 - 11:53 AM
#8
The best stuff I ever used in Gibbs. I swear by the stuff.
Posted by In2Deep on 03/01/09 - 5:23 PM
#9
wow it actually came off pretty easily,one tap with the hammer!!
Posted by ioptfm on 03/01/09 - 5:48 PM
#10
In2Deep wrote:
wow it actually came off pretty easily,one tap with the hammer!!
Good! :) I take it there was no bloodshed!
Posted by Binkie on 03/01/09 - 5:52 PM
#11
Beginners luck.:o
Posted by In2Deep on 03/01/09 - 7:32 PM
#12
Not a drop of blood! On another note I also began sanding the bottom paint to prep for the new paint anf the dust was unbelievable,it dosent just wash off,it looks like I have blue makeup on,my wife got a kick out ot it,hopefully it didnt get through the mask I was wearing and into my lungs!