Re: Steering wheel mishaps

[VINCELYONS@aol.com]

In a message dated 97-02-22 21:39:26 EST, you write:

<< Quattro-philes,
 
 Today, I attempted to resolve a problem that I'm having with the turn signal
 switch on my '86 4KCSQ.  One of the necessary steps, as many of you are
 already aware, is to remove the wheel to gain access to the switches.
 I learned a painful lesson when pulling off the horn button.  To start, I
 tried to gently ease the horn pad off of the wheel, but it would not budge.
 Knowing that there were no screws or notches holding it, I eventually gave
 it a big yank.  After I recovered from literally punching myself in the face
 with the horn pad, I discovered that I had sheared one of the plastic shafts
 that secures the pad to the wheel itself.  The flury of obscenities slowed
 down and then started again when I found I could not repair the turn signal
 problem.  When I re-assembled the wheel and pad, I now have a sloppy horn
 pad that does not properly seat itself onto the wheel.  The horn still
 works, but I don't like how the pad sits now.
 I am looking for a used wheel (one without frayed leather stitching).  I was
 wondering if anyone has upgraded their wheel and has an OEM spare that they
 would like to sell cheap.
 Please email direct, and I'll tell you about the time I punched myself in
 the eye while changing the shifter knob on my other car.
 Regards, Jeffrey Smethers >>

Jeffrey,

These anoying clips have been around since the Super Beetle.  It sounds
like you used the proper method.  The first 5 times you pull off your horn
button
you will brake at least one, after that your kill ratio will drop to 1 broken
in 
five yanks. 
Few dollars a piece, break real easy in colder weather.

321-419-779....   1 rib retainer (stancion,standoff, clip, bracket aka:
doohickey)
321-419-779A    2 rib reatiner  (for your pleasure)

About the wheel, take it ti a top shop and get it restiched. Ask your local
dealer who does their Carrea Cabriolet rag tops.

Vince Lyons