Help identifying this steering wheel?

[Terry Veiga]

Hello:

The PO installed a later model steering column/wheel and I cannot identify the correct replacement rag joint (steering coupler). Any idea what model/year(s) steering wheel this is? Is it supposed to tilt, if so, how? Thanks!

Info:

1. Saginaw power steering box.
2. Part number inside steering column collar: D20AA 3D50??
3. I did not find (or look hard enough??) a part number on the steering wheel.
4. The clear plastic, factory under-dash connector has been eliminated and the wires are crimped directly to the column wires.
5. Ignition/lock on the column has no key.
6. The factory dash ignition switch is partially operable—the starter is now engaged via an auxiliary
   push button installed on the dash.
7. Hazard switch on the column is not operable. The factory dash hazard switch is operable.
8. Horn pad is inoperable.
9. The factory neutral safety switch is disconnected and does not fit the later column.
10. Turn signals mostly work (currently troubleshooting that issue...)
11. I cannot locate the factory reverse light switch, but am removing the dash this weekend for a closer peek.
12. There's no provision on the column for a P-R-N-D-1-2 indicator.
13. Ultimate plan is to reinstall a period-correct column/harness or a new aftermarket tilt unit.

steering wheel-1.jpeg

steering wheel-2.jpeg

steering wheel-3.jpeg

[Terry Veiga]

ADDENDUM:

steering wheel-4.jpeg

rag joint-1.jpeg

rag joint-2.jpeg

[Terry Veiga]

ADDENDUM 2:

rag joint-3.jpeg

rag joint-4.jpeg

[1972hiboy]

That's a Dodge/Chrysler car steering column. looks just like the one from my buddies 73' charger from back in the day.

Edit: Ok. so its not exactly like a 73' charger but it close and it reminded my of that one right off the bat. Still stand behind its a Dodge/Chrysler column.

[Terry Veiga]

Thanks 1972hiboy,

I checked out the early 70s Dodge/Chrysler/Plymouth steering wheels but none seem to match mine—the closest was the '69 Dodge Dart wheel, but only because it had a tall, rectangular emblem shape in the center like my wheel.

I believe my wheel is in the Ford/Lincoln/Mercury family since the collar's "D0AA-3D50??" part number appears to be standard Ford nomenclature, so I've been focusing my searches around an early 70s fitment. Plus, the PO installed a 429/C6 combo that I believe is 1970-1972 vintage based upon the stampings found throughout the engine and trans, and my shot-in-the-dark guess is that my steering wheel may have come from the same donor vehicle as the engine/trans.

These two Lincoln wheels are a VERY close match in style, shape and color, particularly the 1974 version without a P-R-N-D indicator on the collar:

1970 Lincoln Continental Mark III

1970 Lincoln Continental Mark III steering wheel.jpg

1974 Lincoln Continental Mark IV

1974 Lincoln Continental Mark IV steering wheel.jpg

My "mystery" wheel

My steering wheel.jpeg

[jimmy828]

If that was me the column would be removed and the correct column installed. Would be less wiring to deal with and much easier column to deal with. For sure, nobody goin to steal the truck

[Terry Veiga]

For sure, nobody goin to steal the truck

Ha, yeah the locks do look a little obsessive; plus, I have a Harbor Freight entry sensor hidden behind the grill so I can get an alert if anyone approaches the hood at night. And, I'm actually considering buying a wheel boot since I'll eventually have to park a mile away while I'm at work. I also have other hidden deterrents and will install an alarm when I start driving it, but the sad reality is if they want it, they'll surely get it.

Thanks jimmy828

[Terry Veiga]

Success! It appears that my wheel is from a 1970 Ford Galaxie/Torino and it's actually a sharp looking two-tone wheel when new. Unfortunately, the rag joint for tilt columns are apparently extinct, and even used ones are only going for $200!

1. https://secure.cougarpartscatalog.com/c7zz-3a525-a.html
2. https://secure.cougarpartscatalog.com/d1zz-3a525-b.html

Next steps are to search for availability without needing to refi the house; failing that, I'll attempt to refurbish my joint using new rubber. Otherwise, I'll fast-track plans for a replacement column—then list my old rag joint for $$$.

1970 Ford Torino steering wheel

1970 Ford Torino steering wheel.jpg

1970 Ford Galaxie 500 steering wheel

1970 Ford Galaxie 500 steering wheel-2.jpg

1970 Ford Galaxie 500 XL steering wheel

1970 Ford Galaxie 500 XL steering wheel-3.jpg

[JoshT]

Glad you figured it out. I went looking after I saw your earlier post. Was thinking Lincoln, but also found similar Pontiac (IIRC) wheels. Never would have come back to Ford cars.

[Terry Veiga]

Right on, thanks JoshT.

[Terry Veiga]

Side Note: Just ran across this cool Hagerty article about "crazy" steering wheels:

"11 of the Craziest Factory Steering Wheels"
https://www.hagerty.com/media/lists/11- ... ng-wheels/

And there's also Mercury's experimental 'Wrist Twist' wheel...
https://youtu.be/PWWYkxQCFfQ *Anyone notice Ford's editing cheat in this promo video??