The installation of a Nardi steering wheel involves the removal of the original steering wheel, installation of the Nardi wheel and hub assembly, and precise alignment to ensure symmetrical spoke positioning during vehicle operation. The process requires specific tools, including sockets, screwdrivers, and potentially a hammer and cloth, and necessitates disconnecting the vehicle’s battery prior to commencement. Proper horn wiring is also a key consideration, particularly when removing the original clock spring. This article details the steps involved, based on available documentation and forum discussions.
Steering Wheel Removal
Prior to removing the original steering wheel, it is crucial to ensure the vehicle’s front wheels are aligned straight ahead and that both sides of the steering wheel spokes are level. The center horn button cap must be pulled upwards to initiate the removal process. The documentation details the use of tools such as flat kitchen knives, a large flat-head screwdriver for leverage, a thin flat-tip screwdriver for removing screws, and a 24mm “Husky” socket for the locking nut. Two rubber caps located on either side of the steering wheel conceal screws that must be removed. It is recommended to wait ten minutes after disconnecting the negative battery terminal to allow electrical devices to discharge.
Hub Installation and Initial Alignment
Once the original steering wheel is removed, the Nardi hub can be installed. The hub is positioned with the lower spoke at the 6 o’clock position and the right and left spokes level. The hub is then secured with a locking nut. Initial alignment is critical; the vehicle must be driven to assess spoke levelness. If a spoke is not perfectly level, adjustments are made by pulling the steering wheel upwards and rotating it on the spline shaft. This process may require multiple iterations of driving and adjusting until the spokes are level when driving straight. A washer must be included during this process.
Horn Wiring
Horn wiring requires attention, particularly when the original clock spring is removed. The Nardi hub incorporates a brass disc to facilitate horn wiring. The horn wiring passes through the spline shaft and a hole in the hub, connecting to the Nardi horn button. The top trim ring is then placed in position.
Tool Requirements
The installation process requires a specific set of tools. These include:
- 2 flat kitchen knives with thin but strong blades.
- 1 large screwdriver with an approximately 8mm wide flat end for use as a lever.
- 1 thin flat-tip screwdriver for removing small screws.
- A long-neck 24mm socket (or 13/16 extended socket).
- A breaker bar.
- A 10mm socket and socket wrench.
- A hammer and cloth (potentially for gentle adjustments).
- Self-adhesive paper tape (to secure flat knives).
Hub Compatibility and Adapters
While Nardi steering wheels are popular, finding direct adapters for certain vehicles can be challenging. For some vehicles, such as the Porsche 911, a Momo hub and an additional adapter may be necessary. Alternative adapter sources include Italian auto parts suppliers like Mr. Fiat in Atlanta, which offers Luisi adapters compatible with both Momo and Nardi wheels.
Detailed Removal Steps
The following steps outline the removal of an OEM steering wheel:
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait a minimum of ten minutes.
- Remove the two rubber caps located on the left and right sides of the steering wheel.
- Remove the screws exposed after removing the rubber caps.
- Undo the horn wiring connection.
- Use a 24mm socket to undo the locking nut securing the steering wheel to the steering column.
- Pull the washer and nut, then pull the steering wheel upwards to remove it.
- Remove the clock spring and bracket that holds the lighting and wiper stalks. Only the stalk bracket will be reinstalled.
Nardi Hub Installation Steps
- Pull the center horn button and trim ring off the center of the Nardi steering wheel.
- Leave the steering wheel bolt on the lower hub; do not undo the steering wheel from the hub.
- Position the hub with the steering wheel so that the lower spoke is at 6 o’clock and the right and left spokes are level.
- Close the hub with the locking nut, omitting the horn wiring initially.
- Drive the vehicle to verify spoke alignment.
- If necessary, pull the steering wheel upwards and rotate it on the spline shaft to adjust spoke levelness. Repeat driving and adjusting until the spokes are level.
- Tighten the locking nut firmly once alignment is achieved.
- Route the horn wiring through the spline shaft and hub.
- Connect the horn wiring to the Nardi horn button.
- Push the Nardi horn button into the center of the steering wheel.
- Place the top trim ring in place.
Alignment Refinement
Achieving a perfectly level steering wheel often requires multiple adjustments. If one spoke is lower than the other, the steering wheel should be pulled upwards and rotated on the spline shaft in the appropriate direction. The process of driving, assessing, and adjusting should be repeated until the spokes are level during straight-line driving.
Safety Precautions
Disconnecting the battery is a critical safety precaution before beginning the installation process. This prevents accidental activation of electrical components and potential injury.
Conclusion
Installing a Nardi steering wheel involves a series of precise steps, from careful removal of the original wheel to meticulous alignment of the new one. Proper horn wiring and attention to detail are essential for a successful installation. The process requires specific tools and a methodical approach, with multiple adjustments often necessary to achieve perfect spoke alignment. The provided documentation and forum discussions offer valuable guidance for those undertaking this modification.