Steering Wheel nut torque setting?

[RobM77]

I'm changing my steering wheel to one that I can actually reach (which helps!), and finally, after a huge hold up from Momo, I have a steering wheel (though not the one I originally ordered).

I rung the factory for the torque setting on the centre retaining nut and they suggested 25NM. If my calculations are right that's about 18lb ft. Seems very low to me - can anyone verify this? I've got an S2 111S.

[shangani]

It is a large diameter nut, so should need less torque applied to it. 25nm is the figure I have, but I will double check.

Here is a useful set of pictures to take you through the process:

www.sandsmuseum.com/cars/elise/experience/modifications/removesteering/index.html

[cuzza]

Makes me chuckle when people call the factory for advice and then post on the internet for verification

The service manual says 25Nm too.

[black_potato]

When you take it off it will be a little more obvious, basically the nut has a heavy spring behind it so it isnt going anywhere and your just applying a certain amount of compression to that spring rather than tightening a nut in a conventional way.

[RobM77]

Thank you very much for all that - very helpful. Especially the link from Shangani. I'm going to change wheels over this afternoon! I'll post here as to how I get on.

[shangani]

Rob - Give me a call if you want company or assistance with the DIY - I have been busy trying to sort a dodgy connection from my oil pressure sender.

[RobM77]

Thanks for the offer. All done now though!

The thing that took the time was getting the steering wheel off!! I had to make a special puller, which took about 4 hours.

The new wheel with the spacer is much better - my legs are relaxed and straight, and the wheel is within reach, so I no longer need to lean forward on tight bends!