Steering wheel re-stitching

911buff · 911buff's Garage

I am restoring a Racemark steering wheel but I am at a loss as to what "thread" to use to re-stitch with. I started to use a synthetic sinew but it is way too sticky (waxy, if that is even a word). The old stuff is so frayed that I really can't tell what it is. It seems like some kind of cotton threading. Any help is greatly appreciated.

4495 · 4495's Garage

I'd start at a local saddle shop. They might make repairs or know someone who builds or repairs saddles that will know, and most likely have, what you need.

djdsc · 12-30-2015, 09:32 AM

I've used 100% nylon upholstery thread doubled up, for both restiching and recovering. It is heaver than just regular sewing thread. Don't use a polyester as it frays.

47silver · 47silver's Garage

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kahlJ31s2I8

Bill Douglas · 12-31-2015, 04:59 PM

It's called waxed thread. Yup. it's cotton or linen.

I used a DIY kit on my SC steering wheel about 20 years ago and it still looks great.

Discseven · Discseven's Garage

BUFF... + 1 on nylon, it holds up great. Forgot what thickness this is (in pic.) Seems like a matter of taste---some like to feel the stitching... others don't. Should glue the leather to the wheel lightly (contact cement) as you sew or the leather will twist around the wheel over time... particularly the 9 to 3 area.