Colin Chapman Steering wheel

[iain.hamlton]

My steering wheel is one of the Colin Chapman signature ones. Judging by the scuffs in the paint and the thin, spongey, plastic rim, it is pretty original. But I dont think it's the best for driving; I'd rather a leather rim and a bit more strength.

Any suggestions on what to do?
retire the wheel to a hook somewhere and get a new one? What type is best? Where could I get mine refurbished (in England)? Is it worth doing? Or stick with the original artefact?

Thanks and best regards, iain

[Elanintheforest]

Get it refurbished by this chap...he's only down the road from you:

http://www.lotuselan.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=14731

They look just right in the early Plus 2 / S4 / Sprint.

As a driving alternative, I found an early (1960s) MotoLita which uses the original boss...hence the original horn push can be used. That looks superb, and loads better than the modern MotoLitas or Momos with a huge plastic centre and plastic Lotus Badge.
Mark

[archigator]

How about the MOMO Prototipo? They just started making them again, and I think they look better than the original, although I admit I'd love a Chapman wheel for originality's sake. I've had a Prototipo on my Elan for 20 years, and it looks as good as new! (A testament to how often my Elan has been roadworthy in the past 20 years perhaps.)

Gary
'71 Elan Sprint FHC
Miami, FL

[bcmc33]

Any half decent trim shop will put a nice leather cover on a steering wheel for about ?50.


Brian Clarke
(1972 Sprint)

[1964 S1]

I've been using a late "Federal" model Spitfire wheel on both my S1 and +2, off and on, for years. The spokes look original, the stock Lotus horn push can be used and it's surrounded by a donut black foam cushion. Looks good, non stock, and sturdy. One can be had anywhere in the world probably for around 35 US dollars.
On the other hand, the signed wheel is worth restoring. I use my Spitfire wheel for competition driving.

[Jolly Jumper]

Bear in mind the original steering wheel is very light, and many aftermarket wheels are much heavier and will put strain on the steering column.

I just changed back from a (very heavy) period Astrali steering wheel to the original Colin Chapman wheel and what a difference it makes! It just feels so right. It adds a delicate touch, so to say... And you can cover the rim in leather as well.