2000 Ford Ranger Remove Steering Wheel

The 2000 Ford Ranger came equipped from the factory with a supplemental restraint system that includes an air bag mounted in the horn pad on the steering wheel. Of primary importance when removing the steering wheel is the need to disarm the air bag to prevent accidental discharge and serious injury. Removing the steering wheel should take the average home mechanic about 45 minutes to accomplish using basic hand tools and a steering wheel puller.

Tools Used

Tools
Metric wrench set
Socket set
Screwdriver set
Steering wheel puller set
Hammer
Chisel

Remove Steering Wheel

• Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery, using a 10mm wrench, then wait 15 minutes to allow the capacitors that power the air bags to self-discharge. This prevents accidental air bag activation, possible injury, and annoying horn activation while removing the horn pad.

• Remove the small screws that attach the horn pad/air bag assembly to the steering wheel. Slide the pad forward, away from the steering wheel, and disconnect the air bag and horn connectors attached to the steering column. To remove the air bag connector remove the blue slide lock from the connector and push the latch release on the connector while gently pulling it free. Set the horn pad in the passenger seat face up to prevent damage to the wiring.

• Note the alignment marks on the steering wheel hub and column. When reinstalling the wheel, these will be lined up to ensure a straight steering wheel. If the marks are missing or not visible, marks can be made with a chisel and a tap of a hammer. Remove the 13/16-inch nut attaching the steering wheel to the column using a 13/16-inch socket and socket wrench.

• Locate the puller bolts for Ford vehicles in the steering wheel puller set and attach the steering wheel puller to the steering wheel. Two bolt holes are located in the face of the steering wheel to allow the attachment of the puller. Turn the large center bolt of the puller until it contacts the steering column shaft protruding through the steering wheel hub. Align the puller center bolt into the dimple in the end of the column shaft. Turn the center bolt to apply pressure until the wheel pops loose from the shaft.