14" Steering wheel pros/cons

I am considering replacing the not so nice stock 15" and an extra inch of space might make it easier getting in/out versus slightly increased steering effort. Opinions/Experiences.

Thanks.

Smaller wheels mean more effort to turn. That probably will not be an issue.

Over 30 years with one on my 67. Love it!

Pros:
More leg room between seat and wheel
Less arm movement when turning

Cons:
Higher steering effort

It's really only 1/2" but noticeable. Extra steering effort is negligable. Do it!
RS

I have a nice thick wood wheel and love it, I don't notice any problem when turning.

I love the smaller wheel for all the reasons already noted. The downside is negligible in comparison with the benefits.

...funny thing...I never seemed to want (need) the extra room when I was younger...and ...er....a little thinner :-)

TOny

I just switched to a 15", and really like it. It is a little easier to turn, but more significantly I have a better view of the dash, that is, I can see the entire speedometer now. The only down side is a little more effort to get in the seat with the wheel coming closer to my lap, but this is not significant.

The old wheel is the one pictured on my home page.

My B has a 13" steering wheel that was installed by the PO. I'd like to reinstall the factory steering wheel for the sake of originality. However, being long of leg, I really enjoy the manuevering room afforded by the smaller wheel. It's nice and thick, too. One gets used to the steering effort required by smaller steering wheels.

Just replaced my OEM wheel with a 14" Moto-Lita (1979 B) and love it. You get a little bit of the oil and temp gauges cut off (photo here: http://incayellow.com/posts/4141628645 ), but a slight tilt of the head solves that. I find it a much more pleasant driving experience, a thicker wheel to hold on to and quicker to turn for cornering. Didn't notice any change in effort to turn the wheel.

I don't think you'll notice any increase in effort. but you will notice the additional clearance to your legs.

Thanks all.
Adam did you consider the wood rim Moto-Lita? I have been looking at the wood but must admit the leather looks very good in your car. As it does in James'. James, what wheel is that?

Scott, I never considered the wooden one for a few reasons: I didn't fancy my chances with it if I was in an accident; didn't think it suited my late-model B; wanted a thick hand grip; and I REALLY liked the sporty look of the leather and chrome.

I have a 13" on mine. No problems with steering effort at all

I've had the smaller one now for 4 or 5 years, and I can't remember the prior one being any easier to use.

A PO installed a 14" Momo on the '73. I like it so much I'm leaning toward putting the same wheel in the V6 GT.

http://www.merlinmotorsport.co.uk/STEERING-WHEELS-Momo-Momo-Steering-Wheels-Momo-Road-Steering-Wheels-%28Drilled%29/c92_2310_2470_2471/p14101/MOMO-PROTOTIPO-STEERING-WHEEL-SILVER-SPOKES/product_info.html

I've driven both my 14" and a couple with the stock wheel a few time within minutes of each other, and I never noticed any difference in the effort required. And I'm old and weak....

If additional effort bothers you add 6 pri to recommended tire pressures.

I wouldn't reduce tire life, handling and ride quality for a little easier steering effort! I would install a lower steering ratio before doing something that drastic.

I have the Moto-Lita wood wheel. I do wish it had a thicker grip. I miss the original size wheel when it comes to higher speed driving. The smaller wheel feels for a lack of a better word, precarious. Larger diameter wheel feels more stable. I hope that makes sense to you, it's hard to describe.