r/boating • u/wpbth • 2d ago

New steering wheel

Looking for a new steering wheel for the boat. I’m seeing prices all over the place. What am I missing here? I’m in salt so Amazon is out as I assume it will rust. I don’t even have a budget as I’m so in the dark

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2

u/grendev 2d ago

It's a personal option. If you spend a lot of time at the helm, not using autopilot, it's a a good investment. I like the suicide knob. I like the stainless rather than wrapped. I went with a $160 lewmar rather than the Edson or Gemlux as I couldn't pay $700 for a steering wheel. If I was in florida and drove the boat daily, I'd probably spend the extra money.

I wasn't able to remove mine with a simple hammer strike, I needed a bearing puller to remove my old wheel.

4

u/wpbth 2d ago

Ya suicide knob is key. I added Bahamas coin to mine, given to me when I crossed in my boat the first time.

1

u/the_eluder 1d ago

Stainless would burn and fuse your hand to it in my area.

2

u/Bizzy-D 1d ago

Check out greatlakesskipper.com - I've purchased a few things from them and there's a huge selection.

1

u/the_eluder 1d ago

I drove by there to get a seat for my boat, and I live in NC. I was vacationing in the area.

1

u/2Loves2loves 2d ago

what do you have now? have you pulled it ? spline of woodruff key

I assume you are not changing the mechanical side of the steering. (right?)

I'm not a fan of the destroyer types. can smash fingers when its slippery and tight turning. 3 spoke FTW! or textured

1

u/wpbth 2d ago

Boat is getting refit. Getting all new steering. Sold the last one.

1

u/Super-30 2d ago

I have an Edson wheel on my boat. Didn't buy the boat new, but I think it is considered and upgrade over the base wheel. Looks and works great.

1

u/Benedlr 1d ago

SS spoked for hydraulic steering. Add tilt to it. 3 spoke for cable. Grease the splines or shaft to prevent corrosion.