rasbaboo

My 97 450 has this obnoxious squeak when you turn the steering wheel. My mechanic said it is a $500. problem, as the brushes controlling the wheel controls have to be replaced. Yikes. Before I did this, I thought I'd get some feedback. How hard is it to get a new steering wheel? Mine is disintegrating due to my dirty construction hands. Read some thread that I have to get one at a junk yard to send in for new leather? Thanks y'all. rb