Mazda Steering wheel mod

RJSzynal · 8-16-09, 12:25

I eventually want to install a mazda RX8 steering wheel with the red leather sides as the long term aim with my mx-6 is to make it look like it's a new mazda coupe, i.e. so it looks like it's been released recently.
I was wondering if anyone knows whether the rx8 wheel will directly replace the mx6 one? or will I need a spacer? will a spacer even work?
Will the airbag hook up like the old one and work?
Could I hook up the radio steering controls?
I've been thinking about this for a while and thought I'd just ask to see if anyone else knows any of the answers.

Cheers
Robert

Hamster · 8-16-09, 13:59

right then Robster.

Heres the back of a stock steering wheel. Theres a big black hole at the bottom that the wheel locks onto the clockspring on the column which the horn/airbag connect to.

Unless the RX wheel has the same fitting you are going to struggle, unless you get an RX8 clockspring as well then rewire it to the mx6 wiring.

**mx6-uk** · 8-16-09, 18:33

You can modify the boss if you need an adapter.
http://www.mx6.com/forums/2g-mx6-pro...ringwheel.html (Aftermarket Steeringwheel)

I did this on mine a long time ago.
Dont know if the images work on that but the same write up is here.
.:: MX-6 DB ::. Information Regarding Your Mazda MX-6, 626 or Xedos

Cant answer if the fitting is that same on both cars though.

RJSzynal · 8-16-09, 19:51

Now I understand more about how it all hooks up and works I think Hamster is right, if the whole clockspring fits then it'd just be a case of rewiring it. Only downside is that rx8 parts cost a fortune compared to mx6 parts so this little project will have to wait till I have any money!

Robert

**MX6 addict** · 8-16-09, 19:52

I've got a red steering for sale wheel Rob. I can take it to Trax so you can have a look if you like.

Mark

RJSzynal · 8-16-09, 20:19

I have vowed to always have an airbag when possible. Thanks for the offer though, If it had an airbag I'd have it, it's really nice.

Robert

**nasher** · 8-17-09, 18:53

Rob

You could have a look at the MX5 wheel, from memory the fit is the same, and there was a red trim option with air bag. Should be a whole lot sheaper than the RX8 version.

We also need to sort out this gearbox for you mate, my Mrs gives me hell about the space it takes up under the kitchen table. lol...

RJSzynal · 8-17-09, 19:36

That's a good idea, I didn't think of the mx-5.

I totally forgot about that gearbox! Since then I believe I have tracked the problem down to being my clutch rather than gearbox as it's equally difficult to get into all gears, this becomes even harder when I've been driving hard and gotten the clutch temperature up.

Robert