Lightning Steering Wheel?

[reece146]

I'm on the hunt for a new (to me) Expedition (2000-2001 in Estate Green).

Always been a fan of these trucks and am trying to find a nice example that I can modify to my tastes. I'm already day dreaming about the things I want to trick out.

One of the mods I wanted to try was swapping in the four spoke Lightning steering wheel for the original one.

Has anyone done this before? Will it just bolt on and work including the steering wheel buttons? Maybe some wiring needs to be traced?

TIA

 

[z168]

should be bolt on, isnt it? same number of buttons

Standard Expedition Wheel



Lightning Wheel

 

[BigStogs]

It should be a direct replacement. The steering columns are they exact same part number between the Expy and the Lightning. I was interested in this swap but can't find a Lightning steering wheel for sale any where. I may just have to find a wrecked one in a salvage yard somewhere.

 

[ExplorerTom]

That looks just like my 1997 Explorer steering wheel.

 

[reece146]

Good to know... Just need to check part numbers. I think the mustang wheel is the same also but has mustang written on the air bag.

 

[BigStogs]

The part numbers for the steering columns for the Expeditions, F-150s and Explorers are all the same for like 1997-2002. I would think that any wheel would be interchangeable. I am not sure as far as button functionality though, but that could be a simple wiring fix if it isn't directly bolt on. The hardest part is finding a complete wheel for a swap. I have been looking and can't find anything with an included airbag module. Not going to pay $600+ from Ford for a new one.

 

[z168]

Airbag module? is that a separate part from the airbag itself?

 

[magindat]

Clock Spring

All the wiring in those wheels rides on what's commonly called the 'clock spring'. It's a clock spring looking wrap of flat ribbon with conductors.

The airbag should ride on the same wire, though it is possible that differing years may throw and airbag code.

Also, the radio steering wheel controls ride on the same wire - which terminates on pin 18 on the Ford 24 harness behind the radio. However, different years and models may transmit different signals.

If it's a factory radio, this might be an issue. If it's an aftermarket radio, the steering wheel interface module should likely be set up for the year/model the steering wheel came from.

All this can be verified by comparing wiring diagrams and/or with multi-meter.

 

[BigStogs]

Airbag module? is that a separate part from the airbag itself?

I was referring to the airbag itself (Ford lists as a module on the parts site). They are pretty pricey. I may try to source an airbag from a salvage yard to get a better price (not sure about condition though).

 

[z168]

I was referring to the airbag itself (Ford lists as a module on the parts site). They are pretty pricey. I may try to source an airbag from a salvage yard to get a better price (not sure about condition though).

Ahh I see. Yes I totally agree that you will get ***** by buying a new airbag from the stealership. Used ones are good as long as it doesnt throw codes