Re: Steering wheel

[sculptart@aol.com]

Ken, I might have been the person that mentioned the reproduction steering wheels for TC's a while ago. To update you and anyone else that might be interested, I have built the molds for both the home market all black 3 spoke wheel, solid hub wheel and the later 1/2 chrome separate hub, black or gold pearl wheel. I produce the rims out of a modern polymer that can be molded with the color cast in. This material has been highly resistant to cracking from impact and temperature changes, and the color does not fade as it is cast in, or baked on. For my own satisfaction, I researched the original markings of the "Bluemels"script and the appropriate patent markings. These have been molded into the wheel rim as well, at the correct locations on the backside of the wheel. I have found a material that is similar to the thin bakelite coating on the all black wheel and the Bluemel script is pressed in prior to baking this covering. This coating is approx. 1/32" thick as the original. If the hub splines have been stripped or damaged, I have a machine shop that can rebuild these for me. The chrome for the 1/2 chrome spokes is from an automotive plater and is of show quality. I have checked each wheel on my car for fit and looseness. In doing this project I have found it difficult to quote exact prices due to so many variables in the amount of work necessary to restore a good solid, safe wheel. At some time in the near future, I will have a finished supply of the steering wheels that I can exchange for "core" wheels at a set price. Ben Cordsen, TC 4260

[LuckyFloridaLin@aol.com]

For info about wheel protection