Itinerant Air-Cooled

When I got home I noticed that my steering wheel around the horn button was cracked next to the horn button and the crack proceeded to run down the cylinder. Is this a cosmetic crack or something that should be paid more attention? Im not sure of what material the steering wheel is made of - some type of cast or mold. I just dont want to turn the wheel and have nothing happen while Im driving. The steering wheel turns fine and freely. If the steering wheel needs to be replaced what is the procedure for taking it off and where do I find a new / used steering wheel. Has this ever happened to anyone else. It sure looks like more off a cosmetic crack that does not affect the connection of the wheel to the cylinder but I am not an expert and would like to hear what you think. Thanks for any input

You talking about the hub? The spokes and rim of the wheel have a steel skeleton not sure of the hub. Common sense says the spoke skeleton would have to anchor to something in the hub. I would guess that the hub is also steel internally but can't say without a doubt.

Bill

Cracks are cosmetic. Steering wheel hub is a surprisingly soft potmetal to allow it to break in an accident. Rim and spokes are steel.
Colin
(don't use the steering wheel as a launch into the driver's seat)

Thanks for the information - that is what I wanted to hear. I just wanted to make sure I wasnt rolling down the road and unable to turn. If I did want to replace the wheel down the line is there anyone that would fix the existing one, do they sell aftermarket, or would it be best to try and find a used one.

There are peopl that restore steering wheels. But it costs a couple hundred bucks. Better to try and find a really good used one. If you find two, let me know. Mine also has some unsightly cracks.

Im going to do some research and see if I can find any used ones or a place that restores them at a reasonable price but as long as it isnt a safety factor I probably wont do anything unless I can find a reasonably priced solution. I'll let you know sluggo if I find anything out.

mattg wrote: I'll let you know sluggo if I find anything out.

What did you find?
Colin

the places that restrore them are all a few hundred dollars. I bought a used 78 soft wheel from Karl in Fresno for like 20 bucks plus shipping. The steering wheel is in perfect condition and I cant wait to put it on when I start driving the bus again.

I used the por-15 putty, but I don't think it's that much different than the plastic putty t you can get at any hardware store, you knead it and it heats up, you've got a few minutes to work with it before it sets.

So it's just like working with plaster. Cut an upside down v into the crack in the steering wheel plastic. Give yourself a cavity to fill. Clean it out well. Mix the putty and jam it into the crevice, trying to get as close to your eventual shape as possible. Let set. Sand, starting with rough grit, I worked my way from 80 to 400. Used Krylon black. Multiple coats. Worked pretty well.