1990 steering wheel into a 1992 300zx

[Andrew9793]

good afternoon everybody, I have a question about installing the early steering wheel without airbag into a 1992 300zx.
it appears that the horn contacts don't touch the column with that wheel so obviously the horn and cruise control would not be working.

if I was to replace the column steering controls with the blinkers and the cruise control with a 1990 model yellow plastic that only has the blinker would that allow the steering wheel to sit far enough back to let the horn and cruise work or is there something integral in the column that is different sizes to prevent that. I really don't want to have to go the aftermarket steering wheel route as I really like the look of the 1990 stock wheel.

my 1992 steering wheel has both horn buttons removed and I do like the convenience of a horn for passing inspection without having to install a ugly push button somewhere. Also I like the look and feel of the smaller 1990 steering wheel

I do understand that this would remove my airbag and I am not concerned with that aspect as the early 90's airbags are very abrasive and cause lots of damage in there own right, so please try to keep any comments towards the mechanical aspect and not the safety as we all have our opinions on that.

[NolimitZ32]

I'm sure many will disagree with me but I have personally seen what happens to a Z32 when it meets a stationary object and normal road speeds and unless you are very lucky the air bag will be the least of your worries. That said, the state of Texas is going to fail your car for that, generally removing an air bag is illegal (TXDPS forbids it) and if you happen on a knowledgeable inspector, you will not pass.

[everpresentnoob]

Yea, I believe most states are like that. If a car is equiped with airbags from the manufacturer you cannot legally remove them unless the vehicle is intended for off road use only.

That said, mecahancally, what about getting the whole assembly steering wheel and shaft from a 90? Is that option viable for you?

[Andrew9793]

thanks for the reply's I could go pull the steering column from the 1990 that I pulled the steering wheel from, but If I was able to adapt the wheel without it that would have been preferable.

I appreciate the heads up. was just looking to see if I was missing something simple!
maybe I will just suck it up and get a new airbag for my horn buttons and deal with the big wheel instead of the nicer small wheel.

[DCaff300ZX]

Check the pick and pulls and any junk yards around, I have seen airbags at a few over the years and although usually a bit spendy, are FAR less than the new ones. Almost got one for free among a pile of "whatever you want for $200" parts I pulled once, but he saw it and wanted another $100 which I didn't have, but wished I did as I would have paid him that...so see what you can find.