Paint for Plastic steering wheel

[andrewlandon67]

I've finally gotten around to filling in the cracks and such on my VDM Coach wheel, my next step is obviously to repaint the rim, but I have no idea what sort of paint to use. I'm leaning more towards a gloss or semi-gloss black for the color, if that simplifies it any. Thanks!

[ALB]

You need something pretty tough, that will stand up to the constant handling, wear and bombardment of oil/dirt that come off your hands, yet is (relatively) easy to work with, so I would suggest a 2 component polyurethane. All the automotive paint companies make a version and should come in both gloss and semi-gloss. Al

[j-f]

More than the paint itself, a good plastic primer is essential if you want a durable result.
I'm pretty sure there is an article made by Hot vw's how Bob Koch restore a steering wheel.

[andrewlandon67]

You need something pretty tough, that will stand up to the constant handling, wear and bombardment of oil/dirt that come off your hands, yet is (relatively) easy to work with, so I would suggest a 2 component polyurethane. All the automotive paint companies make a version and should come in both gloss and semi-gloss. Al

Good to know! I'll get started on looking into paints similar to that.

[ALB]

Forgot to add- the solvents in this type of paint are quite toxic so you'll need a respirator that takes charcoal filters and you'll need to do this in an area separate from living space. Have fine tipped tweezers handy in case bugs are a problem. And yeah, the Hot VW's article where Mr. Koch does a steering wheel restoration will be a good read. Any body know what issue it was in? I'm pretty sure it was a few years ago.

[j-f]

I'm pretty sure you it's been published in the "totally tech edition", if you can find it. Lot's of good stuff inside.

[Sam K]

I used epoxy paint for appliances when I restored the stock steering wheel for my camaro about ten years ago and it's held up very well.

[andrewlandon67]

I'll see what I can find as far as epoxy stuff goes! Still going back and forth between doing it in black or some shade of darker brown...