I have a 3 spoke steering wheel on my 66 Skylark, but the plastic piece that is directly behind the wheel (bezel?) that attaches it to the column is bigger than the column (it works, but it doesn't match up with the column). The 68 and up columns were slightly bigger in diameter and the bezel I have is the larger one. I would like the bezel to match up with the earlier 64-67 column. I know the corvettes had the smaller column, and I'm wondering if this is the correct part that I need: http://www.ecklers.com/product.asp?pf_id=42183&dept_id=1719 I'd love to order one and put it on if this is the correct part, can someone confirm?
Rich what I have done on a 65 and 66 is to use a 68 hub it is about 1/4 inch larger at the column. Then I had it turned down and it works and looks good. You must use a 68 hub the 69 and up are different and have a lip on the column end and when you turn them down it would leave a larger gap. If you would like I can post a picture of the one I am putting on the 66. Thanks Bill.
Bill, Thanks for the tip. I'm not sure what year the hub I have is, but it's probably a 69 +. I picked up the wheel with the hub a few years ago at a swap meet. It's in the car now but doesn't look right as the hub is larger than the column. I'd love to see pics of your setup. Also, where can I purchase a 68 hub? and how much do you have to machine it (turn it down)?
Late 3 spoke on 65 GS Rick Here is a picture of my 65 with the later wheel with a turned down 68 hub. You can get a repro from The Parts Place. Use a caliper and measure the column and turn down based on that. I think it was about 1/4 inch. Thanks Bill.
More pictures of 65/67 and hubs Rick here are some more, one more of the 65 and one of a 67. Note the 67 column is the same size as the 68 and the hub does not need turned down. Two of the 65 and 68 hub and 68 before turned down and a 69 and later hub. Thanks Bill.
Thanks Bill! that is exactly what I was looking for. I love those 3 spoke wheels on the earlier cars. You have a nice looking interior on that 65. I guess I need to order a 68 hub.....
That Ecklers hub will work only if you can mill a slot in the top surface for the bottom steering wheel spoke to nest into. :TU:
red interior Bill that 65" interior does look great.Not to hijack but I have a wheel I'm putting on and want to touch up the column paint on my 67'.I'm assuming it's the same red as the 65'.Did you paint it and what did you use? thanks alot
David the 65 has the original paint on the colum. As you can see I have not painted the hub. I did get a spray can from the parts place. It was for Chev but looks correct. It is a omni-pac lacquer blend. LAV-16 25216 metallic red L8. Thanks Bill.