I bought a used wood and leather steering wheel that has a few blemishes in the clear coat wood finish.

Had anyone had a good experience with a particular type of clear coat on these wheels?

I have used many different clear coats, polyurethanes, varnishes, etc., over the years and often times they have a "soft" feel/finish. As the steering wheel gets lots of handling I am wanting a nice, hard finish.

My first guess is a spray lacquer.

Any comments from someone with experience (as opposed to just ideas) in this area?

Thanks

 

I believe most "modern" car wood trim is finished with a high build polyester lacquer - not something readily available and very tricky to work with. You will probably be ok with a high gloss marine (or "yacht") varnish which is very durable and can be easily applied by hand, although they are usually a little slow in drying being oil based so several thin coats may be needed to build up the film thickness and to avoid runs.

A 2-pack (acid catalysed) cellulose spray lacquer will be very hard onced cured, but several coats will be needed again. Although touch dry very quickly they generally do not fully cure for several days and you have to be careful with the recoat times. And they're not that pleasant to work with due to the cellulose / acid vapours.

AndyP

 

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