Wheel Dimensions

[gary_pullin]

Southern Cross is currently in the Bahamas and I'm stuck here is this incredible Texas heat. I want to purchase a leather cover for the wheel and I am wondering if anyone has dimensions (diameter and circumference) for the orig. wheel? Thanks

 

[scundy2]

Gary, I'm pretty sure Arrrgh-O still has the original (Edson?) 6-spoke wheel and the tape doesn't lie -- 36-inch diameter.

However, I was wondering if I should get a smaller diameter wheel to provide more room between the wheel and the cockpit sides.

 

[dickkilroy]

The wheel is definitely 36" Dia. I have however forgotten if it's 7/8" or 1". Mine is currently leather covered in leather so can't tell.
Smaller wheel = less torque which you might regret on a broad reach in a good blow.

Dick

 

[scundy2]

Dick, good point. Thank you!

 

[jimcleary]

Check out a company called "Colorwheelz". You send them your wheel and they dip it in a thick vinyl. They have many colors to choose from. Dana's wheel has a double thick layer in grey. It also provides much better thermal and lightening protection than leather.

Jim

 

[gary_pullin]

Thanks all. Good to have friends,

 

[jdenglish]

Gary,
The Orion pedastal/wheel used on my boat HN#075 is a straight 1" shaft. Virtually all new wheels use a tapered shaft. Last year I got a great deal on a 42" leather covered wheel from Defender only to have to spend another $100.00 to have it broached to a straight shaft at a machine shop. When I'm parked the wheel comes off. When sailing the 42" makes for comfortable steering from the coaming.
Cheers,
John