The original wheel is pretty worn, and gummy. I cleaned it well, but its still ... like not right, like a little sticky or something. So when I was in the jyard last, I figured I'd get another. I grabbed a leather wrapped one out of a loaded 2000. Actually I just pulled the entire column because I didn't have the right tools to pull just the wheel. Anyway, it looks ok, and feels good, but to be really nice I think it needs a dye/seal at least on the top 1/3.

Anyone try this and have recommendations or warnings? Thanks !!




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I used the non-shiny armor-all to clean my steering wheel. In hot weather, if felt like glue.... after cleaning, it was fine.

Another option would be to get a wrap for it.

 

You should have upgraded to the 06-08 ram steering wheel! But a wrap is your best bet. When I was going to dye my 06 wheel all the companies I called didn't recommended it.

 

Uggghh... well, guess I'm putting it on as is.... its nice enough, weigh my options if I feed the need to later.

 

I upgraded to the 06 steering wheel it's nice! It doesn't need a wrap though

 

So what makes the 3rd gen wheel nicer than the 2nd gen?

 

Here is my opinion on it and this is purely based on the driver. The outer ring is thicker and to me feels more comfortable in my hands and actually feels like a truck wheel. Also I think it looks a lot better then the factory 2nd gen steering wheels (even the 98-01 ones). With the chrome ram emblem and the updated cruise buttons I think it fits the truck better. Not to mention you can swap buttons from another vehicle, or buy an aftermarket set, that will illuminate the buttons. Here is a picture (notice the two chunks taken out of the outer ring. Also I added the hidden under seat floor storage from a 3rd gen)

 

Here's a great How-To from Chris Fix.

 

Thanks guys. The dye question was more because it looked a little faded, not that its that worn out. I think I'll go with the new to me wheel as is, then if down the road I feel like doing more with it - I'll likely buy leather and wrap it.... low probability on that given I have plenty of other things to do

 

Did the air bag, radio and cruise connections on the 3rd gen wheel plug right in to the 2nd gen harness?