[DeTomaso] How to recondition a steering wheel

MikeLDrew at aol.com MikeLDrew at aol.com
Tue Jun 15 10:35:32 EDT 2010


In a message dated 6/15/10 5 39 43, charlesmccall at gmail.com writes:


> The stock Momo Prototipo on my car is showing its years..
> 
> 
> 
> The leather is slightly cracked and dry. Can the leather be replaced on
> these things? I don't know why not?
> 
> >>>It can, but it would be expensive.
> 
> >How is this done? Where would you bring the wheel to have it 
> reconditioned?
> I don't see "steering wheel restorers" in the yellow pages..
> 
> >>>You need to use the internet. :>)
> 
Most steering wheel reconditioning outfits are concentrating on wood or 
plastic wheels.   Leather-wrapped wheels are actually much easier to restore; 
good auto upholstery shops can do it easily enough.   But it's time-consuming 
and probably more expensive than just buying a new wheel.

There are some DIY articles available too:

http://theinteriorguyllc.com/repair-leather-steering-wheel/

being but one example.
> 
> >I see new wheels on ebay for $180 or so. Is that really the best bet?
> 
>>>It depends on how much value you place on your time.   If you spend 
three or four hours doing research, then bring your wheel to one or more 
different places to have them look at it and give you a quote, and if they quote 
you $150, is that a better deal in your mind?   Maybe, maybe not?

If you're going to replace your wheel, you might consider switching to the 
OMP Corsica.   It is the same diameter as the Prototipo (350mm), has 
basically the same style, and bolts right up to the existing Momo hub, but has 
several inches of dish, bringing the rim closer to you.   

http://www.mercadoracing.org/imagenes-anuncios/10/239515/volanta-omp-corsica
.jpg
http://www.mercadoracing.org/imagenes-anuncios/10/239515/volanta-omp-corsica
_0.jpg

This is a much better solution than using a steering wheel spacer IMHO.

Personally I prefer the Momo, but the OMP is an excellent alternative if 
you have alligator arms. :>)

Mike



More information about the DeTomaso mailing list