Bell and Hub Alignment on '56-'62 Steering Wheels

[Brooks G.]

Guys, a while back I drilled the rivets that hold the bell, and hub to the steering wheel on my '56. I thought I could just drill the heads off the rivets and drive them out. Those rivets had to be drilled almost paper thin before I was able to get them out. I am replacing the steering wheel as it is not in very good condition and filled with cracks. I thought I had pictures showing the alignment of the bell, hub and steering wheel. So far I have been unable to find them. They might have accidently been deleted. Can anyone enlighten me as to the alignment of the hub, bell and steering wheel especially with regards to the roll pins in the hub? Thanks in advance! Brooks Glover (2141)

[Mike E.]

Re: Bell and Hub Alignment on '56-'62 Steering Wheels

The bell can go in any one of three positions, so there's no problem there.
The hub needs to be set so that the two holes are perpendicular on the left side of the column.
The wheel needs to be set on the bell and hub in such a way that the spokes are a 2, 6, and 10.
The horn contact will set only in the cavity in the bell.
The piece that bolts to the wheel and hub and bell that has the arm that contacts the horn contact can only go in one way.
The horn button can only go on one way onto that piece with the arm, and with all else properly located, will be facing up when the steering wheel is at dead center.
Hope that's some help.

[Edward M.]

Re: Bell and Hub Alignment on '56-'62 Steering Wheels

Come over and look at my steering wheel. Hub is still on it, and has been since 1956. Steering wheel / hub is hanging on the wall.

[Brooks G.]

Re: Bell and Hub Alignment on '56-'62 Steering Wheels

Thanks both Mike and Ed! Since Ed lives fairly close, I will probably go over and look at his. I want to get this assembled properly as if I don't the turn signals won't work properly. With advise from you fellows, this should not happen. Thanks again! Brooks Glover (2141)

[John H.]

Re: Bell and Hub Alignment on '56-'62 Steering Wheels

Brooks -

The two roll pins that actuate the cancelling mechanism should be at 8 and 10 o'clock as viewed from the driver's seat with the wheels straight ahead (and the chisel mark on the hub at 12 o'clock, aligned with the chisel mark on the end of the steering shaft).