Steering Wheel Question

[231Fan]

I have a stock 2001 221 with the destroyer wheel. Want to change it up to a three-spoke. Any recommendations as to brands, sizes, and mount details. It looks like you can pay big bucks for one of these three-spoke wheels but can also get them for roughly $150. Any and all advice is appreciated. Merry Christmas to all on CM! Chris

[howell1641]

I bought a seachoice 13" for around $150 and it is great...Still shiney and no rust to be found

[powerplay1]

Sorry for the sideways picture - but you get the idea!

I put a three spoke on and love it! I think it totally changes and updates the look of the center console!

I bought a Schmitt wheel at West Marine. I really like the look of the wheels at Gemlux... take a look at http://www.gemlux.com/catalog/steering-3spoke

[231Fan]

Thanks to both of you. Now for another stupid question or two.

What size nut would a 2001 221 use?

Are the wheels (and the mount) specific to a certain type of steering system or engine type?

Our boat is powered by a 2001 Mercury Opti - sea star steering.

Thanks!!

[powerplay1]

I think a 3/4" tapered shaft is pretty standard. Mine had a Teleflex Seastar as well. I do believe that you need to keep the same wheel diameter - typically 13.5" or 15.5". I am not positive on that - so I just kept the same size.

[231Fan]

Thanks powerplay1!

[Sailor]

shaft depends on your helm type so best to remove your wheel to find out before you order one. I had one of those three spoke defender wheels with the knob and liked it. I would start soaking your current help nut in PB Blaster or some other type of penetrating oil.

[231Mike]

Ill throw in another recommendation for gemlux. Create a login and use promo code THT20OFF and save 20%

[231Fan]

Thanks guys. I'm going to pull the current wheel to make sure I get the correct nut based on shaft currently on helm. Thanks again!

[Triplecrownnc]

Ordered a new wheel from Gemlux and used the discount code.