We're trying to replace the steering wheel but ran into issues.

When using the steering wheel puller, the threads of the shaft were slightly damaged. Tried using a file to repair but no luck yet.

What is the thread size?
May also need to replace the nut. Nut size?
Maybe need a die set to repair threads?
Thanks, picture attached.

 

Can you get someone who has a dial caliper or micrometer and measure the diameter over the threads? I've had them apart many times, but very long ago. I'll guess it's about 5/8" diameter, but maybe smaller, just a guess. A thread gauge would tell you the number of threads per inch. Fixing that damage with a threading die would be difficult, hard to start it straight. Is the nut OK, not damaged? Take it to an Ace Hardware or similar, ask the guy to find a bolt that threads into it; he can tell you the bolt thread size and pitch.

Failing in all of this, if nut is OK, get a hand grinder or disc grinder, and while another rotates the shaft gripping the spline with Channel-lock pliers, grind the end of the shaft forming an angled bevel removing the buggered-up threads.

 

Thanks for the reply. A local machine shop loaned him (my son) the correct die size (I believe it was 5/8"...like you said) and that did the trick. New wheel installed and looks great.

 

Glad I could help!