What is under the steering wheel leather?

[corleykj]

I am wanting to install a steering wheel cover (wheelskins) but I don't like the thickness of the cover over the regular steering wheel. So, my question is...what is under the steering wheel leather? Can I remove the steering wheel leather before I install the cover so it is about factory thickness with the wheelskin on?

Thanks,
Kyle

 

[petrotk40]

you won't be able to get the wheelskin tight enough. Its some foam and metal under the leather.

 

[Sverige]

I have a nearly new steering wheel for sale in the classifieds, what year is your 100?

 

[wmatthewt]

I added a wheelskin cover due to a very worn, in places, stock wheel. You get used to the thickness quickly. It is tight and looks great. You actually sew it on Of course it has 5 years on it now and I am in need of another one. I recommend it.

 

[KlausVanWinkle]

I've been contemplating using leather bicycle grip tape. That might be thinner than a normal cover. Also what's wrong with a thick wheel? Tell people it's the BMW M package wheel. Anyone tried that?

 

[G-Cat]

On my 3rd Gen 4Runner, I cut the leather off of the wheel, except for the spokes. I left the factory foam in-place and then installed the Wheelskins cover over the foam and the "T" shaped leather at the spokes.

I have "thickness" on either side of each spoke, but the cover fit nice and tight over the factory foam. If you remove all of the leather, you'll be left with naked spokes as the Wheelskins cover does not extend down the spokes to the center of the wheel.

Clear as mud?

 

[Trunk Monkey]

Garth, got a pic? Sounds like a great fix.

 

[G-Cat]

Garth, got a pic? Sounds like a great fix.

The runner is in Kansas and my dad is 74... No way I'm getting a pic before June 2!

 

[corleykj]

So I should try removing the leather except around the spokes and leaving the foam.

Others mentioned it might not be a tight fit, was that a concern?

 

[corleykj]

Oh, and thanks to all the replies.