Quick Survey - C1's converted to smaller steering wheels
 

How many of you C1 owners out there have converted your 17" steering wheel to a smaller one? Went on a 7 hour drive this summer and couldn't walk for 2 weeks afterwards due to knee joint pain from being crammed into the C1 cockpit for all that time. Have you found the level of comfort from the extra space worth the trade for lack of originality? Just how hard is it to steer the car into parking spaces with a 15" wheel?

Thanks.

I installed the "Bubnik" wheel shown below in my '62. Allowed for more freedom of entry and exit as I'm 6'1" - 230lbs vs the original. Leverage in static turning was reduced slightly, but, made no difference while driving. The back side of the billet ring was machined with grips for the fingers to assist. One thing I didn't like, however, with my height, I couldn't see the speedometer on the top of the arc; therefore, had to rely on the tach to minimize speeding tickets! Good luck in your search. :thumbs:

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hip and knee used to REALLY hurt from twisting and sliding under that 17" wheel. changed to 15" (and power R&P) and the pain went away.
Bill

I tried a 15" very briefly, and did not like the blockage of the speedo (for my hgt. and where I sit), and did not even try to drive it with the 15" wheel.

I have stock steering,

Plasticman

I built a 15 in wood wheel and I love it. My knee would hit the wheel on every shift. BUT, you have to remember how to drive old cars though....you don't sit still and try to crank the wheel, you start moving and then it's easier. Especially coupled with wider modern tires. At speed there's no noticeable difference to me, save the quicker turning response from the smaller wheel.
To me the advantages outweigh the disadvantages by a mile. :thumbs:

http://oi43.tinypic.com/24lj43a.jpg

Very nice wheel. Well done!

plasticman

I've had mine since I restored it 12 years ago. Wouldn't leave home without it. Sure is easier on the hands trying to park it. Leg room isn't a problem for me as I'm 5'9'' and not overweight..at least not really overweight. Save the Wave.

I'll be watching this thread closely-only had my '62 a few months before deciding to tear down for restoration. Probably put 600 miles on it it stock wheel. Was thinking of ordering 15" wheel, but haven't yet. I'm only 5'9.5" 170 lbs, wife is 5.2 on a tall day, and even she thought the stock wheel was too big. Heard stories both pro/con. Am sure she would have to struggle wrestling with a 15" wheel, but can't tell her...she might have to find out for herself.

Then again-maybe if it is too difficult for her to drive, that's really not a bad thing, is it????!!!!

I've had a Grant mahogany 15" steering wheel for two years,also Lokar gas pedal linkage.It makes for hours of comfortable driving even though I'm 6'2" and in my mid sixties.


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