First to start is the aluminum for the main part of wheel, what is recommended. What aluminum would you use?.
Steering Wheel Materials
- Thread starter David Deschamps
- Start date
I would probably use something in the 5000 series. It will then have decent mechanical properties and still retaining the ductility in case of deformation. 6 or 7000 series starts to become more brittle and prone to cracking in my experience
Charlie Farley
Supporter
Hello David,
Which wheel had you in mind to reproduce ?
I have a little experience in producing wheels for
P chassis cars, where historically they had 'gone racing'
and lost the original wheel.
I was also fortunate to stumble upon a full animal hide dating
from 1964, to upholster them. It has a beautiful soft character,
yet retains its grain.
Which wheel had you in mind to reproduce ?
I have a little experience in producing wheels for
P chassis cars, where historically they had 'gone racing'
and lost the original wheel.
I was also fortunate to stumble upon a full animal hide dating
from 1964, to upholster them. It has a beautiful soft character,
yet retains its grain.
I have what I think is part of mk1 15inch wheel drawing. I'm not hell bent on 100% original for my build, it's not an original car.
Attachments
One of the local metal suppliers stocks 5052-H32 sheet, hopefully I can get a offcut.
I have seen two steering wheels made on this forum and both used wood instead of rubber, any recommendation on what wood to use.
Neil
Supporter
In a serious crash you may wind up with a belly full of splinters. Wood inlaid steering wheels are no longer popular for good reason.
Also, not allowed by SCCA and probably FIA due to the inherent dangers in a crash..
Maybe solid plastic then?.
Plastic covered metal - yes. Then a stitched leather cover over the top of the steering wheel rim. That’s what would be safe, period looking and approved by automotive Competition authorities.
