How to Build a Wood Steering Wheel
Maybe it broke. Maybe the old hulk did not have one. Maybe you just want a little splash of something different. Whatever the reason, adding a custom-built wood steering wheel to your car will spice up the interior and serve as a point of pride for your vehicle. Wood steering wheels are straightforward to make and install, provided your community has no vehicle-code regulations against it.
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Things You'll Need
- Steering wheel mounting rim
- Wood
- Lathe
- Sander
- Screws
- Screwdriver
- Finishing paint, stain or varnish
- Bandsaw
- Wood adhesive
Instructions
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1
Ensure that the steering-wheel rim (the metal collar that mates with the steering tube) is in good working order. This is especially critical for aftermarket or salvage rims.
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2
Remove the outer rim of the mounting rim and the spokes, leaving just the collar in place.
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3
Cut your wood using the bandsaw into a new outer rim. Use the lathe to round out the edges of the block so the handle is cylindrical.
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4
For each of the original metal spokes, make a wooden spoke using the same wood and the lathe. Optionally, you can leave the original metal spokes and cover them with some material such as padded leather.
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5
Use the glue and small screws to affix the spokes to the wooden outer rim. Alternatively, drill a hole into the outer rim, roughly 1/4 inch deep, and insert the glue-covered end of the spoke into that hole.
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6
Sand the outer rim and spokes, then apply your finishing touches--stain, paint, varnish or whatever makes the most sense for your vehicle.
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7
Attach the spokes to the original metal collar. Depending on the collar's design, you may have to drill holes into the spokes and use a bolt to secure them in place.
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8
Mount the completed steering-wheel unit on the steering shaft and secure the collar into place. Align the steering wheel when complete.
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Tips & Warnings
Steering wheels can have many fancy designs, including ones that feature laminates and leather handles. Consult different resources before selecting a final design. Also, consider using durable hardwoods to add safety.
DIY wooden steering wheels will not have the same safety performance as factory-supplied metal wheels, so be careful about relying on a wooden steering wheel for ordinary or high-performance driving. The use of such equipment may be in violation of your state motor-vehicle code or insurance policy, so check before installing a home-made wood steering wheel.
