RSAErick

Hi all,
I'm about ready to buy a new or used non-airbag steering wheel to mount in my 93 RS America track (non-race) and street car. I am willing to compromise streetability in this non-power steering car for track performance.

But there are SO MANY to choose from. From what I can tell, the choices include:
1. Different materials (suede vs. leather)
2. Different diameters
3. Different dish measurements
4. Different brands and styles.

Does anyone have any advice on how I should choose the right wheel?

Also, if anyone has a used wheel that they are interested in selling, please let me know.

Thanks in advance!

Erick

Bill Gregory

Erick,

I use a Momo Corse, which is a bit smaller than stock, and like it for both size and shape. That said, a number of people prefer a suede steering wheel for track usage.

RSAErick

It appears that Momo Corse wheels come in different sizes: 350mm, 330mm, and 320mm (and even smaller). Is there an "appropriate" size for a car without power steering? What are the advantages to smaller?

Thanks.

Erick

Dbltime

This is a PMS stock "cup car" wheel. Deep enough to keep your fingers off the stalks and suede for grip.


http://gallery.rennlist.com/albums/r...c_interior.jpg

RSAErick

Ohhhhh. So the depth (dish) is intended to move your hands and fingers further away from the turn signals and windshield washer stalks? Hmmm. What is the diameter of this wheel?

Thanks.
Erick

JackOlsen

I use the 930S reproduction wheel with an offset spacer, and a quick release -- which adds another 3/8 of an inch or so of spacing. For track use, you want the wheel closer to the driver than most people are accustomed to with street cars. The offset spacer also makes the wheel rotate off center, which provides (in my opinion) invaluable feedback for where the wheel is positioned, without having to confirm anything visually. A quick-release is also great if you use fixed bucket seats or have a cage. (It's also a good theft deterrent, and it still allows the horn to work.)

RSAErick

Interesting thought on the offset. I noticed that some of the steering wheels available, are actualy not perfectly round - they're oval. Is that for the same purposes as the offset, or are there other reasons?

What is the diameter of the 930S wheel? Does the leather provide adequate grip? Do you use gloves?

Thanks!
Erick

Tom W

Eric, I now have a GT3-R wheel in my 964 and got to test it at the track last weekend. I'll send a picture to you when I can. I like it a lot better than the stock wheel - the wheel is thicker and with the adapter it's closer to you (farther from the stalks), both of which I prefer. The suede works well with gloves and gives great grip.

JackOlsen

A quick measurement of my wheel shows an outside diameter of 358 mm.

Dbltime

I bought my wheel from Gert @ Carnewal. Not sure of the size, smaller than stock.

http://www.carnewal-europe.com/cpx/p93078.jpg

RSAErick

Tom,
Great! Thanks, I'm anxious to see it. What hub did you use?

Jack,
Thanks! Do you think that the wheel is just the right size for track work?

Bill,
Thanks! How does the suede hold up over time?

Erick

RedlineMan

Hey Jack;

Quite off the topic, but please update your roll bar padding. That old mushy stuff is dangerous. Get some of the new high density stuff. Expensive, but MUCH safer.

Just thinking of your safety!

Tom W

I believe it's a Momo hub. I got the wheel used from another Rennlister who had it in a 993 track car. He had saved the little piece that goes in to make the horn work in a 964 too - I was lucky. I was surprised at the difference the wheel made and especially surprised at how much that yellow line at the top helps keep you aware of the position.

From what I saw looking on the web, a Sparco wheel will work with the Momo hub (I think you asked that question too).

RSAErick

Thanks Tom. I had "heard" the bit about the hubs being interchangeable, but wanted to get confirmation. And great to hear that you are so happy with the wheel. I can't wait to see those pics!

Erick

joey bagadonuts

In determining size, you might want to evaluate your reach when strapped in with harnesses. Ideally, you should be able to turn the wheel without lifting your shoulders. In a race bucket, the ability to lean against the bolster while cranking in the opposite direction and pushing 1 lateral g is a beautiful thing ... you are smooth and in control. It may not look all that sexy around town but there's a reason those NASCAR and WRX guys have that wheel up so close to them.

See if you can rotate your current wheel 180 degrees without lifting your shoulders. If so, you could probably use any wheel out there. If you feel you don't have enough reach, then you should consider a dished wheel, 320mm diameter or a spacer (check SmartRacing for the latter). Keep in mind, a smaller wheel will make parallel parking a bear with your non-aided rack so it may not be your best option.

BTW, I have a Momo Mod .07 which is very similar to the PMS item but at half the price: 350mm and 2.5" dish