Originally Posted By Aeroman
That's a gorgeous wheel, but it will partially block sight of the instruments on the modern 3W. The wheel needs to be more this configuration, but I take your point about the the holes. smile


Nooooooooo, not that one. I was introduced to this site by the OP, Rufus3 (Paul). I'm Mike Lempert, the crafter of the steering wheel for his new M3W. I wanted to introduce myself to this community, but am sensitive to this being seen as an unwanted attempt at advertising, so I will slant it like this... I'm a classic car guy that extended my hobby and as well as enjoying my cars, I very much enjoy the interactions I have with other enthusiasts, especially the Austin-Healey crowd; my marque of choice. I often make myself available to enthusiasts in forums, by email, or via phone calls to help with any questions relative to the steering wheels of the period. I suppose after nine years of collecting and study, I'm about as expert as anyone. So I'd like to offer myself as a resource to this group, not just for what I can offer, but to help with any questions you might have.

Now to get back to my opening statement, the proper steering wheel for the M3W is probably a four spoke, but can also be a three spoke similar to the Aston wheel pointed out in an earlier post. The important thing is the spoke configuration, and this is where many get it wrong. Most times back in the day, the car builders did pay attention to their steering wheel selections, and that was based much on instrument layout. A four spoke was used in the early Trikes and it looks as though it would be okay on the M3W (from the pictures I've seen). A three spoke is also a good choice, especially with the instruments mounted off to the side as they are. However, the three spoke, with equal 120 degree spacing, should have a spoke at 12 o'clock, not 6 o'clock. This is a common error people make with the 120 degree spokes, thinking it's a Y configuration. Austin Healey is an excellent example where this thinking has gone awry. The cars were delivered from the factory with a spoke at 12 o'clock, but over the years mechanics would mount them in a Y after doing work resulting in many having their wheels upside down. My mechanic did it to me once.

Thanks for listening.

Mike L.