Customs 60's impala mild custom steering wheel?

Let's say, for the sake of argument, you had recently acquired a 62 impala. The impala is done up as a mild 60's custom - skinny whites, polara hubcaps, fender skirts, sitting a tad low.

Let's also say that the driver is well insulated for winter and does not fit well behind the factory sized steering wheel and needs something smaller, but wants to stay somewhat period correct. What would you install if it were you, that is not a chrome chainlink steering wheel?

 

you would be looking at a older grant wheel or one of those cut down stock looking wheels.

 

Maybe install and updated tilt or tele tilt. . If just a smaller steering wheel would help. See if the have a 15" version or a moon 13-15" three spoke.
They make a 9.75" version too.




https://www.speedwaymotors.com/_next/image?url=https://content.speedwaymotors.com/ProductImages/91032740_L1600_0796aed4-ced7-4ffc-909e-b4c9ecc460fd.jpg&w=1280&q=75

 

If a metal flake grant would be okay, that's the way I'm going then. Thanks guys

 

Maybe also if wanting to keep Present steering wheel look into seat track modification 1-2 inch
Seat to track or track to floor
or maybe Oem
Tilt column , I know 65 had

 

Do any of the column manufacturers, like Ididit, make a non shiny column? They are made to the length you ask for, ya, more expensive than a wheel, but could be an option.

 

they make small diameter versions of the 59-60 Impala wheel.

 

Thinking of keeping it period correct, I would check into era custom wheels and upgrade OEMs that were smaller. Were say a Buick or Caddy available with a smaller diameter? Think a power steering car that didn't need the leverage of the large diameter.
As always, check the picture threads here for reference. It's amazing when you scroll along and suddenly something jumps out at you.

 

Does the car have power steering? If not the smaller wheel will make steering a bit harder.

 

If it has power steering, an old Superior 500 wheel would be period correct. But as mentioned, it'll be really hard to drive with manual steering and a smaller wheel.

Aftermarket tilt columns look like dog****. If I had to have a tilt in a 60s car, I'd try adapting something like a 66 Olds tilt/tele setup. They have a cool wheel and no key switch and would give a ton of adjustment. They aren't crazy expensive either. Chevy had an optional tilt in 63/64 but good ones sell for well over a grand now.

 

Let's say, for the sake of argument, a couple less beers and a couple more situps there SpongeBob.

 

It has power steering. I remember wrestling with a 13" grant in my 56 Chevy, my shoulders say no these days.

 

LOL I know the right answer, I was looking for the easy one!

 

Just having some fun. I hope you find a good wheel.