steering wheel orientation

[JoeCB]

Just a question about the orientation of the spokes... Is there a preference and/or is one "correct" ? Spokes horizontal and vertical or at 45* angles, when driving straight ahead?

Joe B

 

[Patrick L.]

Nope, whichever you prefer.

 

[gdmn852]

1930-31 steering wheels are keyed at two locations so you can set it either way, I like it at 45 so easier to see speedometer,keep me from getting speeding tickets that way .

 

[Flathead]

I like 45 also.

 

[Synchro909]

I like 45 also.

Ditto.

 

[nkaminar]

In the service bulletins Ford said that the steering wheel could be re oriented if the customer wanted it. Depending on the pitman arm, steering box, and drag link, the steering wheel may be oriented at some odd angle. With my F100 box the wheel is at 30 degrees.

 

[Bill G]

I thought the X pattern was suggested by Ford so that the instrument panel could be better seen while driving straight ahead.

 

[Ruth]

I never really thought about it, I think it is in the X position.

 

[burner31]

Which ever position feels good in your hand is correct, and just to be clear...my instruments are in the "middle" of my dash, so the steering wheel does not obstruct their view...Henry was a genius

 

[BillCNC]

I have mine in the + position, It let's me have my arm out the window and my fingers at the 9-0 clock spoke for easy and comfortable one handed steering. However, I do worry about the lower spoke and my stomach if I ever rear-end someone hard.

Regards
Bill

 

[David R.]

I like 45 because I like to drive with one hand at bottom of wheel on straight roads

 

[1931 flamingo]

If you decide to change it do NOT bend the Horn rod. Paul in CT

 

[rotorwrench]

The early spline type wheel can be moved on the shaft. The keyed wheels are limited to where the key position is. The steering shaft key way is set when the front wheels and the steering box are centered at assembly and adjustment after overhaul or during repairs.

 

[The Geezer]

I would love to see the look on the dispatchers face when the officer called in a “Speeding Ticket” on a Model A! I never had a ticket so I might try to get one for speeding in my A just for “S—-S and Giggles” !

 

[Marshall V. Daut]

"Geezer" -
Maybe this article from the November/December, 2001 issue of "The Restorer" will answer your question?
Marshall