jjsoni1

Has anyone heard of the "spline," design changing mid year on our model's steering wheel? I found a place that I am considering having redo my stock steering wheel for my 98 LS. The gentleman I spoke to said that some Lexus models had mid year spline changes, but could not recall which models were affected by this change. He suggested to remove my stock wheel to be certain, but that seems like too much work! By the way, "splines," are the gears/grooves on the hole inside the steering wheel, that slide onto the existing portion of the vehicle. Sorry for the very "non-technical," version of my description as this was a first I have ever heard of any of this. Any suggestions from the masters PD or SK?

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

what exactly are you trying to do, as far as i know the LS from 89-05/06 uses the same steering column spline, but the problem is the airbag systems being extremely different through the years.

jjsoni1

My bad PD, sorry. To clarify, I purchased a wheel from a 99 LS400 that I am planning to have refinished, and putting on my 98 LS400. I wanted to know if you were aware of, or heard of, a mid year change with spindle, or any issues that may arise with the 99 wheel going on to my 1998. I never have, but the gentleman today said there may be, but could not remember which models had this issue. Also, and I think I know the answer from your responses and past threads, is the LX470 98-00 wheel/airbag the same, and are they interchangeable (i.e. my bag with that wheel)? Thanks!

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

you'll be fine.

no idea about the LX/LS interchangeability

jjsoni1

Thanks PD.

3UZFTE

Don't see the need to start a new post. I have a chance to buy a nice wheel from a 98 LS for my 92' that I found on craigslist. I see that you mention the airbags are dramatically different. If I do purchase the 98', I'm sure it will bolt up, but will the connectors and what not match, I am aware that I need a 98' air bag to watch the wheel, but that's about it right?

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

its not just the connectors, i can't recall if 98-00 is dual-stage. i know the later models (LS430+) are all dual stage. if it's a single stage you should be fine you'll just have to wire the airbag connector yourself.

3UZFTE

Ok, I didn't really know about the dual stage vs. single stage. That makes sense, I was thinking about just clipping the old connector of the existing air bag, and just using that if it comes with a different connector. Thanks for the advice, I love knowledge.