I'm looking for recommendations for having my '57 Vette steering wheel restored. Hopefully, for someone who you have used or at least seen their work. I found a guy in San Diego who is really good, but he wants $950 and that doesn't include chroming the three rings and shipping. I was hoping to find someone good who can do a quality restoration for $400-$500. Any help would be appreciated. Bob
Quality Restorations did my Merc accessory wheel. They take them down to the bare frame and recast them. It is expensive and they don't do chrome, but like the man said, you get what you pay for.
If your willing to ship your wheel, then I would recommend "The Steering Wheel Guy" here in Edmonton. He does wheels from all over the country, very good work and reasonably priced. Doug is his name, (780)-450-1397 His website is currently being redone, but if you have facebook here is his "fan page" http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Steering-Wheel-Guy/200617011737?v=wall
I appreciate this thread. The steering wheel is sort of the last thing a guy has to deal with on a well-done car. But good restoration isn't a widespread talent or service that's offered. Chrome is chrome, and that's expensive. The plastic is an art. Suggestions always appreciated. Thanks again!
I went to pearlcraft in australia,they are the best for sure.Kirk had his starliner steering wheel done there and they are great to deal with.They have a web site and are fast.
Eastwood has a steering wheel repair kit so you can do it yourself for $50.00 http://www.eastwood.com/master-steering-wheel-repair-kit-w-instruc.html
My thanks to all of you ....... I have contacted the Steering Wheel Guy and it's good to know that someone who has used him likes his work. I understand you get what you pay for .....but, a grand for a wheel repair is too much for my budget.
There is a gentleman on ebay who makes reproduction steering wheels for corvettes. He also makes them in a smaller diameter in several colors plastic or leather covered. I have already bought two of those wheels, 1 plastic and one leather, for customers in Europe and both quality and service were excellent. You can buy NCRS top flight capable repro wheels for a lot less than $950 BUT I understand that the original wheel to the car has a certain meaning that may warrant the expenditure. The "chrome" finish on the spokes is not very nice from the factory so make sure that the restored wheel still shows the original manufacturing marks on the spokes for top flight capability.
Bob, You can check out Koch. They are in the 805 area code. They do restores and I have seen them at the Long Beach swapmeet. They always have some nice stuff in their booth.
VonWegener, thank you. I have purchased a reproduction wheel and while not bad, it wasn't the look I wanted. It also arrived with a crack in it and a little dis-coloration, so I have returned it and decided to try to restore my original wheel. SoCal Merc, thank you ... I have been in touch with Koch and he is pretty close to me. He has quoted $550 for wheel repair, chrome work and to re-weld where the spoke meets the rim. I think that's a pretty reasonable price. Do you know anyone who has used him? Thanks again to all....much appreciated. Bob
Bob,I was going to suggest looking in Hemming's-there's always a few or more listings for steering wheel restoration, but this looks like a good deal for you. I'd be happy to PM you some Hemming's listings if you need them. How about a before and after picture of your wheel, when you can?
I can highly recomend Ken Hanson. Which probably doesn't mean much since you don't know me. Ken Speializes in '62 and earlier Corvettes. He used to do steering wheels and even put the worn off grain back in the wheel like they were when new. Not like the obvious grain difference the reproductions have and not smooth like some restorers. I believe he was the best for a stock 56 to 62 Corvette wheel. I know there are subtle differences and so does he. I guess that's an **** thing for so called Corvette wienies as I've heard them called somewhere on this board Last contact info I have is Orindales (731) 783-0815 1 Saddle Club Rd Medina, TN orindales@yahoo.com He sells the odd thing on eVilbay under the ID Orindales. Check him out. I think you’ll be happy. Dan
I appreciate the offer .......I have Hemmings, thank you. I'd be happy to post before and after once it's done. Thanks again, Bob
I have one of Koch's 15" 55 chevy wheels...I adore it! I had a problem with the paint and they took back the center and repainted at no charge. Great guys to work with.
Bob, No I haven't, but right on time, gal6xie5 has posted what you wanted to know. Good luck with the wheel. The wheel in my 61 Vette is in need of a restore so let me know how yours comes out. Brian
Thank you gal6xie5......that's good information. Brian, I will let you know once I have completed the work ....thanks. Bob
I was going to use Koch's because I am in So Cal but they claim 90 days to complete job. This guy did my wheel in one week and did an outstanding job. His prices are listed on his website. Not sure if he does chrome but I had a local chrome shop do that for me. http://www.steeringwheelbob.com/index.html
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