Replacement steering wheel?

[Martin]

I'm in the UK, and I need to find a replacement wheel. The wooden one won't pass the inspection because "the metal is too sharp, and the wood might shatter and splinter".

Does anyone know a direct replacement that I could use? I know the 6 bolt pattern isn't symmetrical, it looks like it is 65mm spacing. None of the web sites over here have any of the dimensions listed, those that do list the available wheels as either 70mm or 101mm.

Happy to find a make/model on a US website for a wheel then try to find a local dealer if I can be sure it will fit.

Ideally would prefer to not have to drill my own bolt pattern - something must bolt together on this thing and this is my last chance!

Martin

[wareaglescott]

FFR sells a leather steering wheel option. Would that work for you?

[edwardb]

How ironic. The wood-lined steering wheel FF sells is a reproduction of the original style Moto-Lita steering wheel. A fine British company that still has dozens of similar style steering wheels currently listed on their website for sale. None of those would pass a local safety inspection either? I wonder who's buying them...

As mentioned, the leather wrapped wheel might be the solution. But it has similar aluminum spokes, so may still be considered too "sharp." I believe the bolt pattern is specific to the FF hub. I've seen builds using different brand steering wheels, but as I understand not without some fabrication/modification.

[Martin]

It is ironic. People use OEM style wheels for the inspection then swap them over after the inspection.

Looks like I am just going to buy a blank wheel then drill it out.

Martin

[DaleG]

Here's FFR's: http://www.factoryfiveparts.com/14-leather-steering-wheel/

[Martin]

I'd need to ship it to the UK, then bubble wrap the spokes and cover them in fabric or duct tape - that one doesn't pass inspection either.

(I hate the UK inspection rules).

Martin