Introduction
The Grant 3249 installation kit is designed for vehicle owners looking to upgrade their steering wheels on select Ford models from 1970 to 1976. This kit is specifically tailored for compatibility with models such as the Fairlane, Torino, and other full-size Fords from this era. The documentation provided by Autokrafters and ididit includes technical specifications, wiring considerations, and detailed installation guidance, ensuring users can integrate the new steering wheel safely and effectively.
The kit includes all necessary components for mounting the Grant steering wheel, such as adapters, fasteners, and wiring instructions. It is important to note that this installation will disable the factory cruise control system if one is present in the vehicle. This article will explore the key details from the source material, including vehicle compatibility, wiring considerations, and installation best practices.
Vehicle Compatibility
The Grant 3249 installation kit is engineered to fit a specific range of Ford models produced between 1970 and 1976. According to the documentation, the kit is suitable for the following vehicles:
- 1970 Fairlane
- 1970–1976 Torino
- 1970–1973 Mustang
- 1971–1977 Comet
- 1970–1973 Cougar
- 1970 full-size Mercury
- 1970–1977 Maverick
- 1971–1979 Ranchero
These models represent a variety of full-size and mid-size Ford vehicles from the early 1970s, and the installation kit is designed to accommodate the specific mounting points and wiring configurations of these vehicles.
It is important to verify that the user's vehicle falls within these specified years and models before proceeding with the installation. Incorrect installation may result in improper fitment, compromised safety, or damage to the steering components.
Wiring and Electrical Considerations
One of the primary considerations when installing a new steering wheel is the wiring configuration. The installation kit may require adjustments to the vehicle's existing wiring harness to ensure that all functions—such as turn signals, horn, and lighting—continue to operate correctly.
Turn Signal and Lighting Issues
A common issue encountered during steering wheel installations involves the turn signal and lighting systems. If all turn signal lights illuminate simultaneously when only one should activate, this is often due to a wiring misalignment. The documentation suggests checking the 4-way flasher knob to ensure it is fully disengaged, as partial engagement can cause erratic behavior.
If the 4-way flasher is not the issue, the problem may stem from the dual-element bulbs used in older vehicles. These bulbs have two filaments: one for regular lighting and another for brighter signal or brake light activation. If the wiring to these bulbs is crossed, the power can feed back through the headlight switch, causing all lights to illuminate at once. To resolve this, the documentation recommends using a test light to identify which wire is causing the feedback and correcting the wiring accordingly.
Grounding the Horn
Proper grounding is essential for the horn to function correctly. The documentation notes that in fiberglass-bodied vehicles, the standard underdash or floor mount may not provide a sufficient ground. In such cases, it is recommended to run an additional ground wire from the horn to one of the mounting points to ensure a secure electrical connection.
Custom Column Considerations
For users installing a custom steering column, such as those from ididit, additional wiring and configuration may be necessary. The documentation includes detailed wiring instructions for various Ford models, including the 1964–1966 and 1967–1969 Mustangs. These instructions cover how to route wires for turn signals, brake lights, and horn functions to ensure compatibility with the new steering wheel and column setup.
Installation Process Overview
The installation of the Grant 3249 kit involves several key steps, including preparing the vehicle, assembling the components, and ensuring proper alignment and functionality.
Pre-Installation Checks
Before beginning the installation, users should verify the following:
- The vehicle falls within the listed compatibility range.
- All necessary tools and components from the installation kit are present.
- The factory cruise control system is disabled, as this will no longer function with the new steering wheel.
- The horn and lighting systems are in working condition prior to installation.
These checks help prevent unnecessary complications during the installation process and ensure a smooth transition to the new steering wheel.
Assembling the Components
The installation kit includes various parts such as adapters, mounting hardware, and wiring harnesses. Users should refer to the included installation instructions or online resources from the manufacturer for step-by-step guidance.
In some cases, the installation may require modifying the existing steering column or replacing it with a custom column. For example, ididit provides detailed instructions for adapting different types of steering wheels and columns, including 3-bolt, 9-bolt, and specialized models such as the Grant Tuff Grip or Banjo-style wheels.
Final Adjustments and Testing
After the steering wheel is mounted and the wiring is connected, it is crucial to test all functions to ensure they are operating correctly. This includes:
- Testing the horn to confirm it grounds properly.
- Activating the turn signals and brake lights to verify they function independently.
- Checking the 4-way flasher to ensure it does not interfere with normal operation.
If any issues arise during testing, users are encouraged to refer back to the wiring diagrams and troubleshooting guides provided in the documentation or contact the manufacturer for assistance.
Technical Support and Resources
Both Autokrafters and ididit offer extensive support for users installing their products. This includes technical manuals, FAQs, and direct customer service options. For example, ididit provides a comprehensive FAQ section that addresses common installation issues and offers troubleshooting advice for various models and configurations.
Additionally, the ability to identify an ididit steering column by its serial number is outlined in the documentation. This feature is particularly useful for users seeking support, as the serial number can provide detailed information about the column’s specifications and manufacturing history.
Conclusion
The Grant 3249 installation kit is a specialized solution for upgrading steering wheels on select Ford models from 1970 to 1976. It requires careful attention to compatibility, wiring, and grounding to ensure a successful installation. By following the provided documentation and utilizing the available support resources, users can confidently complete the installation process and enjoy the benefits of a new steering wheel tailored to their vehicle.
For those unfamiliar with automotive electrical systems or steering wheel installations, seeking professional assistance is recommended to ensure safety and proper function. The detailed instructions and technical support available from the manufacturers help mitigate potential challenges and provide a reliable guide for users at all skill levels.