Steering Wheel Solution?
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5th Wheeling
Joined: Feb 2025
Posts: 29
Likes: 2
From: Utah
Steering Wheel Solution?
My 1980 F350 - Steering wheel looks fine but the insert (horn, cruise control) is toast.....in many pieces, no longer exists.
I've tried searching for a steering wheel replacement but finding the original is very expensive when you find one.
I have seen a lot of people have just upgraded to a different wheel - but none of them look like they incorporate the cruise control buttons.
Is there a way to put in a new steering wheel and keep cruise control options? How? What have others done?
Or do you sacrifice cruise control for a new steering wheel?
Just kinda hard to pay eBay prices for the correct steering wheel.
Thanks
RG
I've tried searching for a steering wheel replacement but finding the original is very expensive when you find one.
I have seen a lot of people have just upgraded to a different wheel - but none of them look like they incorporate the cruise control buttons.
Is there a way to put in a new steering wheel and keep cruise control options? How? What have others done?
Or do you sacrifice cruise control for a new steering wheel?
Just kinda hard to pay eBay prices for the correct steering wheel.
Thanks
RG
Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 7,174
Likes: 1,174
Rostra makes some aftermarket conversion kits that MIGHT work:
https://www.rostra.com/rostra-add-on...ol-systems.php
Most of their offerings are geared towards newer vehicles, but it looks like some stuff might be applicable.
They also sell various replacement switches, seen at the bottom of that page. Like you, the buttons on my steering wheel are falling apart and I'm too cheap to gamble on an expensive used replacement. I've been considering converting to a GM style turn signal lever, but have not been able to find a good wiring diagram for the Rostra switch internals. Hopefully I could make one work with the Ford control module and servo. I do not know if the Rostra switch is wired the same as a stock GM unit.
https://www.rostra.com/rostra-add-on...ol-systems.php
Most of their offerings are geared towards newer vehicles, but it looks like some stuff might be applicable.
They also sell various replacement switches, seen at the bottom of that page. Like you, the buttons on my steering wheel are falling apart and I'm too cheap to gamble on an expensive used replacement. I've been considering converting to a GM style turn signal lever, but have not been able to find a good wiring diagram for the Rostra switch internals. Hopefully I could make one work with the Ford control module and servo. I do not know if the Rostra switch is wired the same as a stock GM unit.
Moderator
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 56,984
Likes: 2,738
From: Virginia
You already have cruise. Why not make a switch panel and mount it somewhere and intercept the blue wire going to the original cruise control module? This diagram lists the resistor values. You may be able to get those out of the original steering wheel. Looks like you need 3 switches.
Lead Driver
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 5,316
Likes: 1,243
I checked out car-part.com for my area, there were at least two steering wheels with cruise available.
www.car-part.com
www.car-part.com
Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 7,174
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Purchasing a 40 year old used steering wheel can be an expensive gamble unless you make sure ahead of time it can be returned if the switches are acting up.
Lead Driver
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 5,316
Likes: 1,243
I guess 40 YO wheels are beyond my knowledge base. Mine is only 39 YO...and still werkin. You never know when you're getting a wheel from an avid fast food route diverter, where french fries, cheese burgers and the ever present danger of the Pepsi Syndrome lurks nearby.
FTE Legend
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 30,912
Likes: 4,123
From: Angier, NC
My 23 year old Durango the sped control buttons on the wheel dont always work the first time you push them, mainly the cancel 
And I can tell you no French Fries, Burgers or Coke Cola, my go to drink, got spilled on the wheel as I have had the truck since new with only 8 miles on it.
Dave ----
And I can tell you no French Fries, Burgers or Coke Cola, my go to drink, got spilled on the wheel as I have had the truck since new with only 8 miles on it.
Dave ----
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Lead Driver
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 5,316
Likes: 1,243
It's probably a good idea to ask any used part dealers to ring out the switches. It is a simple check when the wheel is off. Circuit should be open with the button not pushed and then show continuity when the buttons are pushed. Also try cleaning your switches with a good technical spray lube, cleaner. I'd direct a small spray right next to the button, high side. Let it sit a bit and then suck it out with the shop vac. Worth a try before taking the wheel off to dig in further.
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Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 7,174
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The switches themselves are delicate membrane pads. The resistors are built into the printed circuit ribbon, for lack of a better word. Pretty high tech overall for the time, but not holding up well 40 years later.
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