I have a 96 GXE and I love the looks of the later model's SE steering wheels. Has anyone ever swapped one out? Is it even worth it?

 

Yah, I know what you mean. I had a 97 GXE with no airbag and factory GXE wheel. Lusted after a 97-99 SE wheel. If you can find one, it's gonna be$$$$$ for the wheel alone, price of an airbag will probably kill you. I found a used leather GXE/GLE wheel on e-bay, about $30. It's not as nice as the SE wheel, it's black, the rest of my interior is tan. But it's a hell of a lot better than the plastic wheel. You might consider going this route.

Just a suggestion.

 

So you say that it can be done though, right?

 

Yes, just lay out several hundred for the SE wheel and at least a grand for the bag and enjoy the ride.

 

Sorry for the ignorance, but if I already have an airbag in my max, couldn't I use that and just replace the steering wheel?

 

Sorry if I sound arrogant, it’s just that I believe I know how you feel.
I don’t think you can use your existing bag in the new SE wheel, but if you find an SE wheel, you can do a test fit.
I think that center horn/bag assembly won’t transfer from your existing wheel to the new SE wheel. That’s where the major expense will come in. The wheel itself might be easier to find. BTW to remove the center horn/bag assembly, you will need to remove those little plastic side covers on your wheel. Inside you will find those security type bolts on both sides of the horn/bag assembly. I suppose if you want to do it right, you will need to find a Torx wrench with the little center security pin opening, probably at a specialty hardware store. Otherwise, just use a flat tipped screwdriver, it will probably kind of chew up the bolt head a bit. Happy hunting, if you find an extra (cheap) SE wheel, let me know.

 

Its too damn big, and it doesnt tilt low enough.

I've been experimenting with a Grant but it is still no use cause they don't make an adapter for it.


Don't get me started.

 

Try a Momo or other type of wheel if you don't mind loosing cruise control and airbag. I'm sure someone out there wants your bag and will pay big money. A smaller diameter wheel will also increase steering effort on the overassisted Max.

 

Um...I thought all 4th gens had airbags standard???