Sticky steering wheel: 1953 C-Cab

[jackb]

I don't know if it is a usual condition to these wheels or something particular to mine and the finish. It is worn, a few cracks... but whenever it is wet, humid or moist outside, the wheel becomes sticky and leaves a dull black grime on my hands. Is this usual, and if so, is there a fix ?

[TWChamp]

I've seen steering wheels do that, including a couple of my newer cars. I'd start by giving it a good wash using warn soapy water and a wash cloth. That fixes mine most of the time.

[Jeff_H]

Have noted that happening with the old trucks and tractors on the farm when I was growing up and also on 80s vintage fords I have owned (when they were not so vintage either). If soap/water washing does not help, give them a good rub down with a rag saturated in windex. You will be surprised what crud comes off.

[Halibrand1]

Our 55 E-7 does that also and getting better after each time I wash it as others have suggested . A friend gave me a pack of mechanic wipes to use on it so that has helped quite a bit also and they are handy to have in the glove box . Ed

[thunderations]

If you use a soft brush with most any cleaning solution, I like Windex, and scrub that wheel it should clean up. After brushing, wipe it down with the Windex and a soft towel or paper towel. I once bought a car with a worn red steering wheel. The spokes were still red but the wheel was worn to black. After scrubbing it, the wheel was all red and in pretty nice shape for being 50 some years old.

[StudeRich]

I think it is just the buildup of Dirt, Oil, Grease, Skin Oil baked on the plastic for YEARS, so it WILL clean up.

[studebakerkid]

I used gasoline on a rag to get the crud from a couple of my steering wheels.

[JRoberts]

I have the same problem with my 2002 F150. I'll have to try out the suggestions made here.