I have an XLT SprCrew, and I was thinking of upgrading some of the factory options.

First off, I want to put in a new steering wheel. I have the standard all plastic/vinyl steering wheel. I want to put in one with a wrap, and possibly even radio controls. ( i know I would need the upgraded head unit as well )

Has anyone done this before? Is it easy to change a steering wheel? I assume they will be very spendy, considering they have an airbag, and whatnot.

 

I don't know that anyone makes an aftermarket steering wheel - specifically for the reasons you mention...air bag, cruise control, radio, etc. You could probably have some adapter custom made, but would likely mean disabling the airbag system and cruise - or going to extra lengths to insure that those stay operable as well. Bottom line is you will be going through a large expense and a lot of custom fab for very little gain.

One solution may be to get an aftermarket radio with a remote control if you don't like reaching over to push the buttons. After having some idiot on a cell phone turn directly in front of me a couple years ago, the resulting 40mph head on collision was enough to make me a believer in air bags - I'd highly recommend maintaining the factory system in full working order. You may be a good driver, but you will still be surrounded by idiots.

Just my .02

 

I was thinking of just getting an OEM F-150 steering wheel from a higher model (lariat or King Ranch), and transplanting it, along with the upgraded factory stereo head unit. (i'm assuming i need the upgraded head unit for steering wheel controls to work??)

 

I think he is talking about putting on a Ford steering wheel with the controls. I am not sure what all it would involve but I would imagine it is possible and not too hard.

 

Ahh - that might make the transplant a little easier, but I still don't know if it would be a direct bolt on and get everything to function. The way all the components 'talk' to each other anymore might make it a PITA. Also, I think several of the controls are multiplexed which means you might only have 2 or 3 wires for all the functions on the wheel. If you had a Helms manual, that should give some in-depth descriptions of the wiring associated with the wheel.

 

the new steering wheel will not have airbag in it. so the price isn't to bad.
i have upgraded my base steering wheel with a leather wheel with the grey cruise control switches. as far as radio controls i have no idea if it will work.

 

radio controls aside...no big deal.


Otherwise you transplanted a leather wrapped wheel, and it worked just fine? Did you replace the airbag with your old one, or are you just runnin no driver side AB?

 

i used the same air bag just changed the wheel.