How to choose the right steering wheel diameter?

[jim1648]

I am in the middle of my boat project (20' mirro deep aluminum v with a 175 johnson) I want to get a stainless "destroyer" style steering wheel for it. I have 3 choices 11", 13", and 15". Which is the right one for me? I would like to go with the smaller one to keep things more compact, but should I get the larger one because of the larger motor I'll be steering? I used the search function already, and didn't come up with anything.. Thanks, Jim

 

[scipper77]

Re: How to choose the right steering wheel diameter?

If you have power steering I'd say get whatever you feel fits the interior the best. I don't see how there could be much of a functionality difference.

 

[jim1648]

Re: How to choose the right steering wheel diameter?

It has rotary steering. I wouldn't think there would be too much of a difference either. I figured they made the different sizes for a reason though, I just don't know if the reason is for style or function.

 

[dwco5051]

Re: How to choose the right steering wheel diameter?

My 20' bass boat has seating that is like a sports car, too large a wheel would rub my legs. The 19'6" Grady White I spend a lot of time in with its helm placement and captains chairs could probably handle a 24" wheel. Sit in your boat at the helm and figure if the larger wheels would interfere with your comfort. The bass boat has a small wheel and rack and pinion steering and you know it is not power steering but it is not uncomfortable. The Grady with a 200 HP Merc has hydraulic steering and you can maneuver it with one finger in the spokes.

 

[jrs_diesel]

Re: How to choose the right steering wheel diameter?

Cut out some cardboard circles and see which one would work best.

 

[DianneB]

Re: How to choose the right steering wheel diameter?

My personal preference is for the largest wheel that fits and that means not interfering with anything including my knees when I am sitting at the helm.

I just did a new helm for my 1966 24' cruiser and wanted a wooden wheel. I had to settle for a 16" because anything larger interfered with various other things and would preclude sitting while running.

 

[Greg Mrozinski]

Re: How to choose the right steering wheel diameter?

Jim,

The difference comes in where the larger sizes can create addition leverage on the helm spindle. Most steering systems have a recommended maximum size wheel to use so you don't damage the system by applying too much torque. I believe most teleflex rotary systems recommend wheels smaller than 16" diameter. But you should check because I don't know if that changes with a no-feedback-type system or not.

 

[sublauxation]

Re: How to choose the right steering wheel diameter?

I rebuilt an 18 ft Sylvan with a 90 hp, I'm pretty sure the wheel I put on is 11 inches. It works well but it seems small, If I had any more hp I think bigger would be necessary. I agree with you on keeping it as compact as possible, I have no problems bumping my knees on it, but from my experience I wouldn't go smaller than the 13 on your rig.