Preparation:
1. Park the truck in a safe location and turn off the engine.
2. Set the parking brake and make sure the truck is in "Park" gear if it's an automatic transmission.
3. Disconnect the battery by removing the negative terminal cable. This is a safety precaution to avoid any electrical accidents while working on the steering wheel.
Removing the Old Steering Wheel:
1. Locate the two steering wheel bolts on the back side of the steering wheel. These bolts are usually located at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions when viewed from the driver's seat.
2. Use an appropriate wrench or socket to loosen and remove the two steering wheel bolts. Be careful not to drop them into the steering column.
3. Gently pull the steering wheel towards you while wiggling it slightly. This should release the wheel from the splined steering shaft. If it's stuck, you can use a steering wheel puller tool.
Installing the New Steering Wheel:
1. Align the new steering wheel with the splined shaft, ensuring that it's centered and properly aligned.
2. Install the two steering wheel bolts and hand-tighten them.
3. Use the appropriate wrench or socket to tighten the steering wheel bolts securely. Make sure they are snug to prevent the wheel from coming loose while driving.
4. Reconnect the negative battery cable to restore power to the truck.
Final Steps:
1. Test the steering wheel by turning it left and right to ensure it moves smoothly and there's no play or excessive movement.
2. Start the truck and check for any warning lights or messages on the dashboard related to the steering system.
3. Take the truck for a short test drive to verify the proper functioning of the steering wheel and ensure there are no issues with steering control.
Remember to follow any specific instructions or recommendations provided in the owner's manual or Kenworth service literature for your truck model to ensure a safe and successful steering wheel replacement.
