Smaller steering wheel/no power steering

[ROBT257]

I'm a big guy and was considering going to a smaller steering wheel to give me more room. Yet my 72 F250 4x4 doesn't have power steering. My question is............Will the smaller diameter wheel give me a noticeable amount of less leverage while turning? My wife drives the truck some and don't want it to be impossible for 120lbs self. But also I don't want it much more difficult for my 265lbs self. I guess that makes since?

[70shortwide]

i can tell you that it will make a difference. If I was in that situation I would want power steering first. your wife will probably need the power steering. not meaning to judge but these trucks a re a little hard steering with the stock wheel and the smaller the wheel the harder it gets.

[Calvin Gunter]

You will definately want power steering first.I already have power steering on my 67 and recently installed a Grant steering wheel and it takes more effort to turn with it than the 17 inch stocker.

[ROBT257]

Well thats not what I wanted to hear. But figured I'd look in to it before spending the money and effort. Power steering is probably not in my future. The info I've read on here on retro fitting other systems appears to be a little over my mechanical ability. Plus it seems as though the systems are not readily available.

I guess my only option is to get smaller! LOL!

[trukcrazy]

This is the wheel I used in my 67 F100 with no power steering and it didn't bother me. But you would have to try it and see if you really noticed any difference. I still parallel parked it and did 3 point turnarounds. It really wasn't bad. It is now in my black 67 crew along with the powdercoated instrument bezel. Good luck.

[The Good Humor Man]

My 66 had a new steering column in it with a small steering wheel, steers great with no power steering. Now I must mention that I have a lot of weight on the rear of the GH trucks, so that may make a differance.

[ROBT257]

HHmmm? I guess I might try it. Maybe look for one of those deals from a company that will take a return if I don't like it.

I appreciate the comments.

[fireguywtc]

Also, your 4wd armstrong steering maybe more difficult then the 2wd. I have only driven one 4wd with manual steering and it seemed more difficult to me then my 2wd manual steering. Just a thought.

[FLATBEDFORD]

Just remember that properly inflated tires and only turning the wheel when the truck is rolling are a must with armstrong steering. Power steering has spoiled some of us. My first car didn't have power steering, so I learned to always steer with the vehicle rolling. I still do it, even with my newer power steering equipped vehicles.

[jzjames]

I too went with a 15" Grant wheel,
http://store.summitracing.com/partdetai ... toview=sku

the thick softgrip actually compensates for the smaller diameter, and in some ways is easier to steer (thicker, better grip). I like it.
When I have to pull in or out of a parking space I just take it s l o w.

[ROBT257]

jz,

How difficult was the exchange? Will I need any special tools? Will I need some kid of install kit? I like the look and price of that wheel. I'll check them out.

[mr_josh]

How big are your tires? I have a stock wheel and 35 x 12.50s with manual steering, and man, I would not want anything smaller than stock.

[papabug71]

I have a 15" Superior wheel in my truck. No P/S. Its a little harder to turn at a dead stop, but on the move, its easier to turn than the factory big rig wheel. (smaller wheel = less turning). As long as you dont mind putting a little strong-arm into it, you shouldnt have a problem.

But, I will have P/S on my truck.....some day.........but not soon............

[JMcTurnan]

Yes, and extreme difference. I am 300lbs, I went from a small wheel about 10" diam maybe 12" to the factory 20" i believe? It made a big difference, its not to bad when driving. But when your pulling out of a driveway or onto a main street from a side street its a big difference.

[NUTNDUN]

I have a 13" billet wheel with manual steering. As long as you are moving it is alright, not moving is a different story but as mentioned earlier even if you just inch it while turning makes it so much easier and you soon start anticipating it. My truck is only 2wd shortbed so that makes a difference too.