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1987-1989 Fox Body Mustang Steering Wheel Removal & Install Guide

Created by Andrew Perry / 5 min read
Date Created: 10/23/2025
Last Updated: 10/24/2025

Check out how we remove the old, worn-down steering wheel in this 1987-1989 Fox Body Mustang, along with an installation and overview of our own 5.0 Resto factory-style steering wheel!

Viewing this install and using the information shared is subject to the terms set forth here - View the LMR Install Instructions Disclaimer.
Upgrade your worn or faded 1987-1989 Mustang wheel with this premium 5.0 Resto replacement. Built to factory specs, it features the original two-spoke design, OE-style textured materials, and a smooth black leather wrap for a comfortable, factory-fresh feel.

Each wheel includes a molded plastic backing plate to secure your cruise control switches (available with or without cruise control). Simply swap your old wheel, reuse or replace your cruise buttons if equipped, and reinstall your horn pad for a like-new look straight from the showroom!

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Vehicle Fitment:
Chassis: Ford Fox Body Mustang
Year Range: 1987, 1988, 1989

Tool List:
  • Automotive Interior Cleaner
  • Automotive Interior Brushes
  • Microfiber Towels
  • Steering Wheel Puller
  • Socket Set
  • Torque Wrench
  • Phillips Head Screwdriver
Torque Specs:
  • Steering Wheel Bolt: 23-33 lb-ft

Removal & Installation Instructions

Step 1: Remove Old Steering Wheel

  • Start by removing the horn pad by pulling the back of it and disconnecting the spade connectors.
  • Using a 15mm socket, loosen the steering wheel bolt and remove it.
  • Next, assemble and install the steering wheel puller. Turn the press screw in using the appropriate socket to remove the steering wheel fully.
  • Take this time to remove the steering wheel trim ring and shrouds to clean if desired.

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Step 2: Remove Steering Wheel Buttons

  • Start by removing the steering wheel puller from the wheel.
  • Using a Phillips head screwdriver, loosen and remove the (7) screws from the backing plate and contact pad.
  • Disconnect the contact pad connectors and remove the cruise control buttons from the steering wheel.
  • Take this time to clean up all of the components that will be reused.

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Step 3: Transfer Steering Wheel Components

  • Transfer the cruise control buttons from the old steering wheel to the new wheel by reversing the removal steps.
  • Feed the cruise control buttons through the steering wheel and reinstall the contact pad and reconnect it. 
  • Slide on the rear trim back plate on first and then situate the contact pad to reinstall the (7) Phillips head screws.

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1987-1989-fox-body-mustang-how-to-remove-install-steering-wheel_a3d1c0ff.jpg (800×533)
Step 4: Install New Steering Wheel

  • Reinstall the collum trim and any other components you may have removed for cleaning.
  • Place the steering wheel on and install a new steering wheel bolt. Torque to 23-33 lb-ft.
  • Reconnect the horn pad and reinstall it, making sure the wires are not pinched.
  • After that, you are good to go!
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1987-1989-fox-body-mustang-how-to-remove-install-steering-wheel_7ef87f15.jpg (800×622)


About the Video

1987-1989 Fox Body Mustang 5.0 Resto Factory-style Steering Wheels - Overview & How To Install

Check out our YouTube channel for even more tech tips, installation videos, how-tos, and more. The best place to go for anything Mustang related!

Published on 2025-10-13
Replace your faded, ripped, or worn-out 1987-1989 Mustang steering wheel with a 5.0 Resto leather steering wheel! The steering wheel in your Fox Body is one of the most used parts in your interior, especially for a daily-driven Mustang. Over time, you may notice the grain on the urethane turn smooth and shiny, eventually crack, and separate from the hoop. These black 5.0 Resto leather steering wheels mirror the design of your factory steering wheel for a comfortable OE feel and grip. Pick one up today to restore your Fox Body to have an interior that looks showroom new.

Starting with all new materials, these 5.0 Resto steering wheels have the correct two-spoke design, molded in an OE-style textured material. After the metals are formed to shape, the steering wheel is wrapped with premium black leather and stitched with black thread for a clean appearance that looks like it could have rolled off the assembly line. A new molded plastic backing plate secures the cruise control switches in place. 5.0 Resto offers this steering wheel for cars with cruise control and without. All you need to do is swap out your original wheel with the new 5.0 Resto unit, either replace or reuse your cruise control buttons (if equipped), and reinstall the original horn button.
Thumbnail image of the author of this article, Andrew Perry.

About the Author

Andrew has been writing content for Late Model Restoration for over 2 years, producing over 50 articles. Over the years, Andrew has owned numerous Mustangs, including a 2007 V6, 2003 GT, 1967 GT, 1994 GT, 1995 GT, 2014 GT (2), 2000 V6 (V8 swapped), 2016 GT/PP, 1988 LX 5.0, and a 2009 GT/CS. Read more...