Leather covered wheel

HARDWORK · #1 (**permalink**) 06-26-2009

I just purchased a new (to me) sailboat. Most of the equipment is perfect and I would like to keep it that way as long as possible. One thing that I am unsure about is the leather covering on the wheel. Is there anything that I should do to take care of it (scotchguard or something) ?

bubb2 · #2 (**permalink**) 06-26-2009

NO, don't do anything to it. I have a covered wheel. It's been on the boat 10 years and is great.

Vasco · #3 (**permalink**) 06-26-2009

Have had one for five years. Last year my wife got some fancy leather treatment stuff (can't remember the name but it's sold in automotive stores, think it was McGuires) and treated it a couple of times but i think it's just as good without anything.

HARDWORK · #4 (**permalink**) 06-26-2009

Thanks, that is exactly what I needed to know.

BarryL · #5 (**permalink**) 06-26-2009

Hey,

The best thing you can do to protect the wheel cover is to cover the wheel with a sun cover when you're off the boat. Either a complete pedestal cover or just a sun cover for the wheel. The sun will take a toll on the leather.

Barry

Vasco · #6 (**permalink**) 06-26-2009

Barry,

You may have a point about the sun. Mine is always under the bimini and when we lay the boat up for the summer we cover the pedestal and wheel. Watch out for chafe if you cover the wheel.

bubb2 · #7 (**permalink**) 06-26-2009

I would also add, I seen both slick leather wheel wraps and suede wheel wraps. I have the suede!