Thinking of changing steering wheel...

[fbeatty]

But I just can't seem to click the OK button to buy the new one.

I am thinking of going the MOMO Prototipo route as I like the design, but I am hesitant. Thought about the Monte Carlo and the Retro style (really kind of like this one), but I don't know if the silver spokes of the Retro would go to well with the interior of my 88.

The original wheel needs to be recovered badly and I intend to keep it and redo/have it redone one day maybe. I just think it would be nice to have a new wheel with a design that I like.

What say the group here, any reasons I should or shouldn't? (Yes I know, I am asking for opinions on a very subjective topic)

[AVDCAV]

Buy it ". Small investment with a huge return

[kwyjibo]

Unless you are on eBay looking at a vintage one, you are probably looking at a MOMO wheel that is smaller than your current stock one. I can't remember the diameter of the wheels in the 88s, but the ones that you are considering are likely to be about an inch smaller. It makes a difference in the look and feel. Speaking of look, consider getting the "cloaking device" that someone made - it replaces the rubber accordion boot that comes with the adaptor with one that looks more stock But keep in mind that it is actually made for the pre-73 adaptors and doesn't completely cover the later ones. A search will locate photos showing this.
Another one to consider is the setup by the guys at the Zuffenhaus. You can get a replica in the correct size but it will cost about twice the current MOMO pricing.
Good luck and post photos when you're done.

[fbeatty]

Originally Posted by kwyjibo

Unless you are on eBay looking at a vintage one, you are probably looking at a MOMO wheel that is smaller than your current stock one. I can't remember the diameter of the wheels in the 88s, but the ones that you are considering are likely to be about an inch smaller. It makes a difference in the look and feel. Speaking of look, consider getting the "cloaking device" that someone made - it replaces the rubber accordion boot that comes with the adaptor with one that looks more stock But keep in mind that it is actually made for the pre-73 adaptors and doesn't completely cover the later ones. A search will locate photos showing this.
Another one to consider is the setup by the guys at the Zuffenhaus. You can get a replica in the correct size but it will cost about twice the current MOMO pricing.
Good luck and post photos when you're done.

Thanks for the warning, you are correct. The original wheel is about 15" I believe and the newer MOMO is ~13.8". The feel would be different but maybe not bad...

I will check into a "cloaking" device as that sounds interesting, thanks again.

[Hodgey]

...hit the 'buy' button.......I did for a Momo Retro and never looked back. I still have the original one also.

I bought the spacer to move it up and away from the dash a smidge...worth it as the rim of the newer marginally smaller diameter obstructed view of the speedo a little too much for my liking...

[5String43]

+1 on a spacer. I have one behind the Nardi wheel on my car. Placing the wheel a little closer to my driving position makes the thing a lot more comfortable to drive. The reach to the turn signal wand is a little longer, but I consider this a very small price to pay.

[mclmk8d]

I've also been looking into wheels, both newer and vintage. Newer ones I've been looking at are Abarth 350mms, Momo Prototype, also 350mm, and the Momo Retro, which is 360mm. The original wheel on my 87 is 380mm. However, I am sitting fairly low, even with the height adjustment at the highest, as I'm only 5'7". I've been trying to figure out how much my view of the speedo would actually be blocked. I may take some photos later and post what I see with the stock wheel and the difference with the smaller wheels.

[ivangene]

yea, well worth the effort!

I bought one, didnt like it....then bought 2 more and to be honest I dont really like the one I have...but its working for now...

if you dont like it you can sell it at the 1/2 $ value in minutes...(which means you should be able to fine a "new" pre-owned for the same) so swapping is only time and very little money

I would get a Monte Carlo - I have the Jet Balck right now...its a "little much" on the glam side with its carbon fiber and all...but for $80 I snatched it up and like it better than what I had before.....

It's NOT a life long decision...if you change your mind...change it

[will hung]

If you don't like how much the wheel blocks the speedo, it is very easy to rotate and make the speedo easier to view. I saw a post earlier where somebody bought a retro wheel and painted it matte black. It looked fantastic. Like a vintage Abarth.

[twistoffat]

I´ve a Monte Carlo and Love it. The prototipo looks great but I think the Monte carlo looks better on the 80´s cars. Mines an 87

[Tony V]

I put the Retro in my '68. Nice period correct looking wheel. I believe it's sold with black spokes also.
I've found, that on long road trips, I miss being able to rest my left arm on the sill and still hold the wheel. I install my original wood wheel for long trips. I do have a Monte Carlo if you're interested. Loved the feel but didn't match the early look of the car.
Tony

[Dublinoh]

I was just where you are a couple weeks ago. Check out this thread for lots of pictures of different steering wheels in cars. I liked the MoMo Retro but also wanted something with darker metal. Ended up buying an Abarth steering wheel that fits on a MoMo hub 360mm. Don't have it yet...I'll post in this thread when I get it installed:

Show me (please) your steering wheels!


This a picture of the Abarth Fiat steering wheel:

[tobluforu]

Blocking the speedo, who cares, plus you can turn it and the tach if you like.
The proto's seem to be the wheel of choice around here. I had a MC and it's in a box somewhere. I now have a momo apache but will be getting something that is brushed and has holes in it to match my interior. There are so many wheels out there so take your time and pick what you like, and it doesn't have to be a momo. You can buy a nardi, sparco, luisi, etc..

[tazzieman]

Originally Posted by fbeatty

But I just can't seem to click the OK button to buy the new one.
Thought about the Monte Carlo and the Retro style (really kind of like this one), but I don't know if the silver spokes of the Retro would go to well with the interior of my 88.

I couldn't find the black version of the Retro but no problem! Mask , etch prime , Rustoleum satin black and Bob's yer uncle! I love this wheel!

[Koizumi]

I really dig my wheel! Hub spacer is a must, too!

[mclmk8d]

Koizumi, love that horn button...is it a converted center cap?

[mschwien]

Fond of the Retro as well!

[Busta Rib]

The Proto wheels look great and period correct. Personally, I prefer a wheel that has more of an ergonomic/contoured grip with thumb grooves at 3:00 and 9:00. It just feels great. Have you tried one out? Getting the right steering wheel (look and feel) is important since it is one of the most-touched parts on your car, besides your seat. Also keep in mind that if you do not have power steering, getting a smaller diameter wheel will require a bit more effort to turn. I don't mind it, but YMMV.

[Dublinoh]

Koizumi: Do you have a source for the silver porsche horn button...like the minimal look

[fbeatty]

Originally Posted by Dublinoh

Koizumi: Do you have a source for the silver porsche horn button...like the minimal look

I think I found them on Amazon, but I am sure they are with other vendors.