The wood steering wheel in my '30 was obviously reglued (at the finger joints) at some point. I assume that it had worked loose. The problem is that the repairer wasn't careful and a couple of the joints are misaligned by about 1/16". Now the question: What's the best way to unglue these joints so I can reassemble it accurately? I have no idea what kind of glue was used last time, except that it's still very tight. I don't want to damage the wood trying to get it apart.

My initial idea is to try soaking it in hot water or steaming it, but I'm sure that will raise the grain on the wood.

Any ideas?

Thanks, Chip.

Steaming the wood is a worth a try since it will be less damaging to the wood and you will probably have some degree of success....especially if Elmer's glue was used. Raising the grain wouldn't be that much of a problem since the wood rim was originally painted black so the wood could be sanded lightly before primer and paint is applied.

This doesn't help you with your repair but I thought you as well as others might find it helpful. I seen this on Ebay and the gentleman was asking $138.00 opening bid and did not have any luck getting anyone to bid. He makes steering wheels out of whatever kind of wood you want him to. These are just the wooden ring. Here is the info:
This wheel is correct for a 1930 or 1929 chevy. You need to know what you have before you bid. This wheel is about 1" thick and measures 17 1/4" on the out side and 14 1/2" on the inside. It has no finish it is bare so it can be painted for trucks are finished clear are what ever you need. This patern was taken off of a good unrestored car. It has 12 finger grips between each spoke on the bottom of the wheel. It has 3 small rings around the top of the wheel.This wheel is new and is in exlent shape, It is hard wood, red oak, it is solid wood not laminated.It is asembled in 8 segments being finger jointed together the way they were. If you wish call me at 1-573-266-0002. I can make almost any kind if wheel. Buyer pays only auctual shipping no handling fees. Ships from zip # 63769. Thanks Butch

Great info.... Thanks very much.

All the Best, Chip

Some wood glues can be loosened with heat. Try using a hair dryer on it.

i have repaired the wooden steering wheels on our 29 conv land. and the 30 roadster pickup using gorrila glue. make sure you scrap off the old glues prior to coating with the monkey snot. been holding well for 2-3 years. mike

Mike -- How did you get them apart to reglue them?

Thanks, Chip

remove the fastners on the underside of the spokes. the finger joints were loose enough mild tension seperated them. mike

Wish mine were that loose. I'll try the steam / heat approach as recommended and see how it goes.

Thanks to all for the ideas.

All the Best, Chip.