Steering wheel cover repair

[JESimmons]

1974 230.4 W115

My steering wheel seems to be a metal core covered with a semi-soft plastic. At about the 10 o'clock position, just where my left hand rests, the cover twists as though it has separated inside from the metal core.

Is there some way to repair this? I'm thinking about getting something like a hypodermic needle and injecting some glue inside. Any recommendations?
John

[Mike D]

You can try the glue but it's probably best to replace the wheel. The older hard plastic ones can be repaired but I doubt the padded ones can be.

You can most likely get a good wheel at a pic'n'pull for about $20 or spend $10 on some epoxy and take a chance. Your call.

[JimFreeh]

I've tried that, doesn't last.

Find a used wheel.

Jim

[thorsen]

Would a leather steering wheel cover that you stitch on help?

http://www.wheelskins.com/original_wheelskin.php

[JimFreeh]

Originally Posted by thorsen

Would a leather steering wheel cover that you stitch on help?

http://www.wheelskins.com/original_wheelskin.php

Nope, the urethane has debonded with the metal steering wheel frame.

Jim

[Graham]

Originally Posted by JESimmons

1974 230.4 W115

My steering wheel seems to be a metal core covered with a semi-soft plastic. At about the 10 o'clock position, just where my left hand rests, the cover twists as though it has separated inside from the metal core.

Is there some way to repair this? I'm thinking about getting something like a hypodermic needle and injecting some glue inside. Any recommendations?
John

I have not done this so take what I say with a pinch of salt! A good used wheel would probably be your best option, but I like to FIX things

There are adhesives that can adhere plastics to steel very well - For example, 3M's trim adhesives. But they are really more like a contact cement. You would need to apply them to both surfaces, then bring them together once the adhesive gets tacky.

You may be able to carefully cut a slit in the back side of the wheel and open it up enough to be able to apply the adhesive.

If you want to try the injection, you can get a flexible epoxy. I bought some at West Marine. But it cost as much as the used wheel from the wrecker!

Good Luck