Need new destroyer type wheel for small center console; foam or no?

[ajgraz]

Have (had!) a 15" stainless steel "destroyer" type wheel on my 17' center console. Yesterday while offshore all 5 spokes broke off from the hub (probably most were already done, and this was the last straw for the ones remaining). I MacGyver'd a fix from some cable ties poached from the wiring and managed to get back in OK.


Anyway, time for a new wheel. I think I'm going to go for another destroyer type, as I need the high rake (for reach) and the less obstructed view through the spokes while standing to operate. I may bump down to a 13-1/2" diameter from the 15" though, less banging my thighs into it. Teleflex no-feedback steering says only, "15 inch max."

I am also considering whether to go with another stainless ring, or something different like the polyurethane foam-gripped ring. Opinions from those who've tried both? Longevity of the grip? How grippy is it? (I find the stainless ring kind of slippery when wet.) Sun-heat buildup in the foam?

(Pic just to illustrate "standard no-foam" vs foam)


I really have no interest in the "knob" style...unless someone can convince me why I'd need it:


Lastly, any specific manufacturer / model recommendations? Anything you've seen or used that looks a little better-constructed than the rest?

Thanks!

 

[Scott Danforth]

I would invest in a seat as well. the wheel broke because your holding the wheel as a handle to keep yourself upright. the constant flexing back and forth pulling and pushing on the wheel is what broke the welds

as far as foam, no foam, knob, no knob, that is your preference.

 

[ajgraz]

I would invest in a seat as well. the wheel broke because your holding the wheel as a handle to keep yourself upright. the constant flexing back and forth pulling and pushing on the wheel is what broke the welds...

Likely a lot of truth to that.

I do have a seat, but standing with one hand on the wheel and one on the binnacle is the safest way to see and negotiate all the obstacles (flotsam, kayaks, paddleboards, rogue wakes, tacking sailboats, skiffs that dart out from behind docks and pilings, etc.) that pop up on the San Diego bay, so that's not changing. I am thinking a smaller diameter wheel might help with that, too (less of a lever). And I don't need that much turning torque, I was able to turn with my cobbled-together wheel with my palm on the center.

 

[Scott Danforth]

then get a leaning post. thats what they are for

 

[Stumpalump]

I like the knob style. It's great around docks or for navigating tight creeks. It's really nice when in reverse and you need to whip the wheel lock to lock. Same with the trailer loading. You can steer really fast. It's also nice when standing to the side like when grabbing a dock or a drink. I can grab the knob and steer while standing sideways to the helm and steer as well as if I'm in front of it. Makes it safer especially if somebody else it sitting in the drivers seat and you need to take over. It's odd at first but in time you will use it all the time.