steering wheel

[allmine]

I'll want to replace the steering wheel of my V8 with something more in keeping with the general spirit of the car. I'm aware of the Atiwe one for the Esprit, but am curious if there are other options as well, or if this is the only alternative to the ugliness that comes with the cars here in the States. Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Brigitte

[feffman]

Brigitte:

You can purchase a Momo adapter from most Lotus parts places. Call Jeff at JAE Parts (www.JAEParts.com) and ask him for the billet hub adapter and the necessary kit to install the steering wheel. Then simply find a good Momo wheel and go to town. You'll need to disconnect the passenger side airbag too.

Mark Pfeffer
1999 Esprit with a Momo wheel

[kmaier]

Well,

I have the Lotus adapter (and it's for sale) for the Momo steering wheel but as pointed out you'll need to "dummy" the airbag circuitry using a resistor. You can find a selection of Momo wheels available via the net at varying prices. Of course depending on your state you may not pass inspection sans airbag.

BTW - what MY is your V8? Color?

Regards, KM
2000 V8

[feffman]

Kevin:

I have kids (age 8 and 5) so I simply disconnect the passenger airbag by disconnecting the two main connectors. Turns off the passenger airbag and the dash warning light.

Mark

[bojangles]

I thought air bags were problems for rear-facing child seats only... and some early generation bags were a little hard on frail drivers sitting close to the steering wheel..
If I had a child next to me I would want them protected by the passenger airbag..... The potential to help far outweighs the myths of their danger.... Typically the dangers are from the passenger not sitting properly in their seat.

The only time I wish of an accident is when i see the silly person ( passenger ) with feet up on the dash of a minivan. They sure would look silly with their legs blown into the back seat over their shoulder...

I used to say silly americans, but now it is common here in Canada too.. sheesh

[ErnestM]

Feffman...

Didn't you do a couple rounds in the ring with a pediatrician over this issue not too long ago?...

I seem to remember the subject of airbags being near and dear to your heart...

===

Wife wouldn't let me get the Lotus/momo because of the non-airbag issue. However, I did get in on the RAID wheel buy put together by Jim (JK1 on PH) and it was probably the best money I ever spent on the car.

ErnestM