Steering Wheel & Airbag Swap issue
 

I have created myself an interesting situation. I assumed that all e36 airbags and steering wheels were swappable but it doesn't seem to be the case. I bought and airbag and wheel from a 94 325is to put in my 95 318ti but i came across an issue with the horn. I know many people stay away from messing with airbags but i don't want to be out money for my stupid mistake. I can splice new connectors for the airbag if need be but, my situation lies in the horn assembly. one has a connector under the airbag and the other seems to be integrated into the ring around the splines. Is there any possible way to put this wheel on with the new airbag and get a functional horn?

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/...mak/photo1.jpg

Top is the new airbag and the bottom is the one i pulled out.

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/...mak/photo2.jpg

This is the new wheel that came with the airbag the only connector it has is for the airbag unlike my old one below.

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/...mak/photo6.jpg

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/...mak/photo3.jpg

backside of the new wheel the horn somehow contacts the brass ring?

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/...mak/photo5.jpg

Back of both airbags. Top new (94 325is) bottom old (95 318ti)

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/...mak/photo7.jpg

Left is the new airbag, right is the old

Any info or insight would be greatly appreciated!

Usually there is a button on a spring that touches that brass ring, you would need the corresponding part on your steering column, maybe try swapping the clockspring if you can...

If the new steering wheel is offset like the original, I recommend a new steering wheel!

Here are 2 DIYs related to fitting an airbag wheel, but I don't think they address the horn. I have a friend that has a wheel & airbag like the upper one in your first picture, reasonably priced, if you end up needing one.
http://www.frankies-bmw.com/3series/...ring_wheel.php
http://www.dvatp.com/bmw/diy/steering_wheel_conversion/

Thanks John! Those write ups are exactly what i needed. I will do the swap as soon as my car gets back from the body shop. :)