Steering wheel question?

[karl]

I'm looking at replacing my steering wheel with the open top type, but I'm sure there have been some changes with MSA regs regarding steering wheels? " So I'm hoping some one on here might be able to help? "

Are open top wheels legal with the MSA Regs?

I heard some people have cut and altered wheels in the past, adding link bars etc...
(I would not go down that route any way) - I'm informed this is not legal and if it was I'd still prefer not to.

My S.wheel is a normal wheel at the moment - but my other concern is the lack of security for hand grip with an open top wheel - the possibility that if things get messy my hands could leave the steering wheel more easily with an open top, or the need to grip more firmly causing arm fatigue?

The aim is it would provide a better view of the clocks/instruments - which I know you do not spend too much time looking at, but because of the chassis design, mounting surface and shape of my wheel it does make it a little bit more difficult to read the instruments when needs must.

(and no I'm not going to change to a wheel mounted dash - trying to save the pennies)

[tristancliffe]

Karl,

no, wheels must have a continuous rim, with no sharp angles. This can be got around by mounting a dash into the gap I think.

Other than moving the relative position of the wheel and instruments, or fitting a slightly larger wheel, then there isn't a cheap wayof doing it really.

Your concerns about grabbing nothing when trying to save the day are the reason for the MSA's stance. I think the blue book is online if you want to read the regs yourself. If not I can send you a PDF.

[triple j motorsport]

You are correct on every point!!

They are a pain in the a*** too when pushing the car around the pits etc

If you are running a dash and logger why not fit addition gear change and warning leds? I did this if the warning led comes on you'll manage to see the screen ok!!

[karl]

Well that's that then! (as I suspected )

I can live with it the way it is for now. Was just looking at possible improvements - whilst tidying up the wiring loom and simplifying for reliability.

everything will just stay where it is for now - was just looking at getting rid of the wires from the steering wheel switch - and to the shift light and dash menu scroll button at the same time -

I do not have much room through the instruments mounting surface, between the chassis bars to do anything different so....

I will wait until the dash gives up and then look new kit which will allow for a different lay out.

no money to spend for now then. LOL