Retrofitting newer steering wheel, connectors?

[spicyHam]

Hi all,

Im thinking about replacing the steering wheel in my 97 Rsb, because its starting to split at the stitched joins and im a real perfectionist with those sorts of things. Im looking at a wheel from a 2002 version 7 sti.. does anyone know if all the Subaru airbags use the same connectors? Would like to be able to plug straight in.

[Guest boostin]

Different plugs I think.

[spicyHam]

Took apart my column, it has a connector like this. Even if it doesnt fit i guess i can cut it off and use some choc-box connectors anyway.

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[Guest]

if you are planning to cut it, be very careful, never know if it will go bang.

and i dont know if a real perfectionist would use choc-box connectors

-smurff

[spicyHam]

I was a tad worried about the bang lol. but if it disconnects ok it should be fine... right? And yea i said im a real perfectionist with those things, like what i can see, aesthetics and such. ITs just a wire hidden away though, if i cant see it, its not there!

[Guest]

the bang can happen at any time that your playing with the cables if cutting them, cut one at a time, dont let them touch and try not to touch them, static lectricity is a big concern with these, so be carefull lol

-smurff

[Guest boostin]

If you look down inside that connector you'll see the shorting bars that stop you poking 12V up it, and prevent static from firing it. Remove that and you're dicing with trouble.

[Guest]

ahhh is that what that is, nice

-smurff

[spicyHam]

 boostin said:

If you look down inside that connector you'll see the shorting bars that stop you poking 12V up it, and prevent static from firing it. Remove that and you're dicing with trouble.

Touche.. smart money then is leaving the connectors on and cutting/re-joining wires elsewhere perhaps. Though it still hasnt been established that the connectors are even any different yet.

[spicyHam]

Never mind, i found the answer from this handy article. (you need to join ozfoz to see it) http://www.ozfoz.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=29&t=54

The plug looks to be the same for the newer momo shape wheel, so a swap should be easy. Also has good tips on how to do it safely, ones i didnt know of when i took apart to take my pic...