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Restoration Process & Pricing

Steering Wheel Restoration Process

Whether you’re preserving a survivor, finishing a frame-off, or just want the wheel to match the rest of your interior, our process is designed to deliver concours-level results — with lasting durability. Every wheel is restored with a craftsman's eye and a restorer’s judgment.

ASSESSMENT
 

When we receive your wheel, we'll make a full assessment of the condition, specific color needs, and project cost. Assessment is done with the owner's perspective front and center--we communicate with you to understand your restoration goals. 

WHEEL PREP

 

  • Your wheel is sanded down to the base material (removing any applications of paint or filler material from earlier restorations).

  • All cracks are cut out and prepared for filling. 

  • If needed, deteriorated and dried out materials are stablilized with liquid polymers that penetrate deeply into the wheel and create a new matrix, binding existing material.  

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STRUCTURAL & SUBSTRATE REPAIR

 

  • All cracks and non-factory imperfections are epoxy-filled.

  • Deeper cracks, cracks in stress areas, or cracks that are otherwise prone to flex (thus risk reappearing) are structurally reinforced with a specialized process.

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SHAPING & SEALING

 

  • After curing, worn finger grips, raised ridges, surface grooves, molded accents, etc. are restored and shaped to original dimensions

  • Wheel surface is thoroughly rechecked; any remaining cosmetic imperfections addressed. 

  • Purpose-formulated sealer is applied to isolate all repairs. 

PRIMER

 

  • We apply high-solids polyester surfacers valued for exceptional levelling and long-term durability.

  • ​Surface progressively sanded to 400 grit, guide coated, and final sanding @600

PAINT

 

  • Multiple coats are applied in a walk-in spray booth specially-designed for steering wheels and small parts.

  • We use computer-matched colors in acrylic enamel or urethane.*  

 

*Thoughts About Base Coat/Clear Coat... 

 

We offer base coat/clear coat upon request. It's often ideal for customs needing a very high gloss finish, but is also more prone to chipping on high-contact areas like steering wheels. We usually recommend single-stage enamel or urethane for durability and period-authentic appearance. 

packaging and shipping
DETAILING & SHIPPING
 
  • Every piece is thoroughly inspected and detailed.  Nothing leaves the shop without being declared "perfect."

  • We contact you to let you the wheel is complete.

  • Your wheel is (very) securely packaged, insured, and shipped with a UPS tracking code. 

Pricing
Pricing Guidelines 
Restoration
  • Structural or Advanced – Starts at $1,075
    Comprehensive crack removal, structural reinforcement (may include TIG welding), rebuilding missing sections, and full reshaping prior to application of sealing agents and high-solids polyester primer, progressive sanding to 600 grit, followed by three coats of automotive-grade paint systems and final detailing.

  • Simple Restoration – Starts at $950
    Deep crack removal and repair using specialized epoxies, shaping to original dimensions, followed by application of sealing agents and high-solids polyester primer, progressive sanding to 600 grit, followed by three coats of automotive-grade paint systems and final detailing.

  • Just Paint – Starts at $599
    For wheels in excellent structural condition requiring a full surface restoration. This includes sanding to bare substrate, application of sealing agents and high-solids polyester primer, progressive sanding to 600 grit, followed by three coats of automotive-grade paint systems and final detailing.

  • Severe Damage – Quoted Case-by-Case
    For wheels with major missing sections, damaged cores, or significant structural issues.

  • Trim & Other Parts – Case-by-Case
    Radios, garnish moldings, interior trim, and related items are individually quoted based on condition and complexity.

 

NEW SERVICE: Reproduction Enhancement
  • Starting at $550
    Repop wheels often miss the mark on fit and finish (and usually come in very limited colors). Our repop enhancement process corrects these issues, giving your reproduction the look, character and color of an original. Turnaround is just 2 weeks — fast, affordable, and a major visual upgrade.

Specialty & Custom Work
  • Custom Builds
    Projects involving downsizing, hub swaps, grafting, or other complex modifications are specialized. Due to their bespoke nature, we quote these jobs for you individually. Please contact us directly to discuss your project and receive a detailed estimate and timeline.

Repop
Shipping
  • Shipping and insurance fees typically average around $100 (but note they are subject to UPS' rates).

Military & First Responders
  • We’re honored to offer a discount to active military, veterans, and first responders in appreciation of your service.

Ready to get a quote?

Use the form below or call us.  

No matter the condition, budget, or timing we’ll talk through the best restoration approach for your goals — from smart fixes to full concours restorations.

Contact Steering Wheel Bob's

We'll never send you unsolicited emails, and we don't share your information

Other Contact Methods: 

  • You can call +1-609-483-2642 (8AM-5PM EST)

  • Or email us: info@steeringwheelbob.com

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