Late Mini Steering Wheel?? 1990 City Mini
Turbo Mini Forums

Hi all about 4 months ago when I started building my turbo I purchased a brand new steering wheel from the 2000 mini`s the one with the airbag (which as been taken out).

The Bore of the steering wheel i`snt big enough to go over my original city steering column.

I have been advised by the man that did the body work on my car that I could not have the old steering wheel centre cut out and welded in the new one because it is cast something and would be dangerous.

He said it is possible to have the steering wheel bored bigger and then new splines are stamped through using a special tool.

As any one heard of this or even done it. or is it just not possible?

Thanks

The later cars with the airbag steering wheels have a steering column that is completely different, also the bracketry that holds the column to the shell is different as well.
I would agree with the chap who has told you that it is not safe to start welding and chopping the centre out. As much as anything else, the steering wheel is moulded around the die cast (?) aluminium centre, and it would end up looking an absolute pigs ear!
If I were you, I would sell the steering wheel you have on, and buy an aftermarket sparco/omp etc type one with the suitable boss.
The only other way to use the steering wheel you have is to buy second hand the correct late type column, with the switches, cowling, ignition lock and switch. This will need quite a lot of work to make the stalks etc all work properly. They also cost good money, I have the late type column and wheel in my car, I don't have the ignition lock/switch, and the best price I have found a second hand column for is £150 at the moment, so up to you whether you think its worth the effort and the money!

No I cant afford to do that lol.

So is it possible to get a fabricating place to make a bigger hole and put new splines in??

If not, How much do you think the steering wheel will fetch on ebay its Mint.

If I am honest I doubt you will find anywhere with the correct tooling to be able to put the right spline and taper into your new steering wheel. If you do find somewhere it is likely to cost you a fair bit anyway, as it will probably take them a couple of hours, at the associated cost.......

Not sure how much they go for on ebay. I bought one a while ago, think I paid £30 for it plus postage, but if yours is brand new it may go for more, I don't know.

Ok thanks