Products
Bringing an MPI Alcantara Steering Wheel Back to Life.
This MPI-DP-13 steering wheel was in rough shape when I received it. A Super Late Model driver from Georgia had used it since 2014 in an Asphalt series. He thought it was shot and listed it on eBay for $70. I snagged it!
This is an awesome steering wheel. Many of your favorite Nascar drivers use this exact steering wheel every Friday, Saturday, or Sunday in the race. Usually in a 15-inch variation, but there are 13,14,15, or 16 available in this same steering wheel.
Now this steering wheel was very dirty, but not lost. When I unboxed it, my initial impressions were, “wow, this dirty” “this guy must of had oil and bearing grease caked in his hands each time he drove”. So, I started to get to work. The 10-2 location was the worst part. It was heavily soiled with grime and most likely grease. It would appear the driver used gloves on some occasions, but perhaps not all. None the less, I started to scrub the outer half of the steering wheel with a MPI-A-SB Steel Steering Wheel Brush. Once I was able to get the initial surface to bristle a little, I grabbed my can of Sonax Alcantara Cleaner and a couple of clean and dry microfiber cloths.
1st – Lightly apply the Sonax Alcantara Cleaner to the outside portion of the wheel.
2nd – Use warm water and get one of the microfiber cloths wet. Ring it out so it is not dripping wet. Take the damp cloth and wrap it around the steering wheel where you applied the Sonax. With the cloth wrapped around the wheel, and your hand gripping the cloth and wheel, move your hand in a back and forth motion. This will help start to lift the Alcantara fibers and expose the dirt that is hidden underneath. You will start to notice the cloth getting dirty. You can either rinse it out or move on to a cleaner cloth. Keep repeating this process until the cloth is no longer displaying dirt after you have completed the above process on the steering wheel. Once you are satisfied with the results, move on to the next section of the wheel that is dirty and repeat the process.
3rd – After you are satisfied that the wheel is clean, wait for it to dry and take the MPI-A-SB Steel Steering Wheel Brush and use the rubber side to bring back the memory of the Alcantara. You may have to lightly use the steel side to get it started. You’ll notice that the smaller 13″ wheel on the left is lighter colored now after cleaning. This is due to the heavy soiling the wheel experienced prior to cleaning. If your wheel has been only used indoors for Sim Racing. Chances are, it won’t turn light gray as did this 13″ MPI wheel.
That is, it. Your Alcantara wheel is ready for its new journey. Check out the links below to the products used in this article. These links help support SK Sim Racing, and our continued efforts to bring Sim Racing content to you, The Sim Racer.
Note: These are recommendations. Not all wheels will require this intense of a cleaning process. Your wheel may require a more or less intense cleaning. Always read the instructions on cleaning products or tools prior to use. SK Sim Racing is not responsible for damage to wheels caused by these recommendations. Use good judgement. Safety glasses are recommended when using liquid chemical agents.
Affiliate Links to products used.
MPI-A-SB Steel Steering Wheel Brush https://amzn.to/3ea5WUQ
Sonax (206141) Upholstery and Alcantara Cleaner – 8.45 fl. oz. https://amzn.to/2Ps1bvs
MPI MPI-LM-15 Steel Wheel Suede Grip https://amzn.to/3eav5Pf
MPI MPI-MP-14-OE Steel Wheel Suede https://amzn.to/3sNek0H
Featured
“Unleash Ultimate Racing Precision: Introducing the Fanatec Gran Turismo® DD Extreme Bundle!”
Introducing the Fanatec Gran Turismo DD Extreme Bundle: Unleash the Power of Precision
Attention, racing enthusiasts! Prepare to immerse yourself in the extreme with the latest release from Fanatec: The Gran Turismo DD Extreme Bundle. This powerhouse combination of cutting-edge technology is designed to elevate your racing experience to unprecedented levels of realism and performance.
Designed for Gran Turismo®
Step into the world of Gran Turismo® like never before with a steering wheel meticulously crafted in collaboration with Polyphony Digital. The premium vegan leather grip and 300 mm diameter of this multi-purpose wheel deliver a level of realism that will leave you breathless. Equipped with an array of features including directional sticks, RGB LED rings, and a vibrant OLED display, every detail is designed to enhance your immersion in the virtual racing world.
Smooth Operator
Powered by the ClubSport DD+ Wheelbase, this bundle offers lightning-fast acceleration and precise control. Say goodbye to unwanted oscillations and hello to crystal-clear force feedback, thanks to innovative technologies like FluxBarrier and offset rotor segments. With the most thermally stable Wheelbase in its class, you can trust that your torque output and force feedback will remain consistent lap after lap.
FullForce: Force Feedback 2.0 for Direct Drive
Experience a new level of immersion with FullForce technology, a revolutionary force feedback protocol tailored specifically for Fanatec Direct Drive systems. Feel the engine revs and details of the road surface like never before, thanks to high-frequency vibrations that put you right in the driver’s seat. Combined with class-leading slew rate performance, every motor reaction is incredibly fast and dynamic, ensuring a precision response that sets a new standard in sim racing.
Extreme Compatibility
Compatible with PlayStation®5 and PlayStation®4 consoles, as well as PC, the Gran Turismo DD Extreme Bundle offers versatility without compromise. Whether you’re a console gamer or a PC enthusiast, this bundle is ready to take your racing experience to the next level. Plus, with compatibility across the entire Fanatec ecosystem, you can easily integrate additional peripherals for a customized setup that suits your unique preferences.
Take the Wheel
Are you ready to take your racing experience to the extreme? Don’t miss out on the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Gran Turismo® like never before. Click the link below to learn more about the Fanatec Gran Turismo DD Extreme Bundle and elevate your racing game to the next level of precision and performance. Immerse yourself in the extreme and let the thrill of the race begin!
Affiliate Links
**Experience Authentic Oval Racing with the ClubSport Steering Wheel NASCAR V2 for Xbox**
Rev up your engines and prepare for an unparalleled oval racing experience with the officially licensed ClubSport Steering Wheel NASCAR V2 for Xbox. This exceptional product is a combination of the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox and the Podium Wheel Rim NASCAR, designed to bring the thrill of NASCAR racing to your sim setup. Compatible with any FANATEC® wheel base, including attached peripherals like shifters, pedals, or handbrakes, this bundle ensures seamless compatibility with PC, Xbox One® and Xbox Series X|S for an immersive racing adventure.
**Crafted with Authentic and Premium Materials**
The first thing you’ll notice about this wheel is its commitment to authenticity and premium materials. The rim is meticulously crafted from brushed, anodized aluminum and wrapped in genuine Alcantara©, a hallmark of quality in the racing world. The large 350mm diameter and dished, three-spoke design are tailored for modern NASCAR vehicles, ensuring you’re fully immersed in the racing action.
**Loaded with Features for Total Control**
The ClubSport Steering Wheel NASCAR V2 is packed with features designed to put you in complete control of your racing experience. Magnetic shifters provide exceptionally crisp and rapid shifting, thanks to the preinstalled ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module. The strong magnetic resistance and satisfying ‘click’ ensure each shift feels solid and precise. The inclusion of both small and large paddles accommodates different wheel sizes, catering to your preferences.
**Customizable Button Clusters**
Take customization to the next level with adjustable button clusters. Position them wherever suits your racing style best or remove them entirely for a clean and streamlined appearance. Don’t worry about losing control, as integrated buttons on top of the Hub offer an alternative control option.
**On-the-Fly Tuning**
Access the FANATEC® Tuning Menu with ease while driving, thanks to the dedicated Tuning Button. This feature allows you to adjust your wheel base force feedback and other hardware settings on-the-fly, ensuring you’re always in tune with your race conditions.
**FunkySwitch™ for Versatility**
The 7-way FunkySwitch™ is a versatile input device that combines a d-pad, push-button, and rotary encoder functionalities. Press the Tuning Button to bring up the Tuning Menu on the integrated display, and use the FunkySwitch™ to make precise adjustments to your settings.
**Future-Ready Design**
Investing in the ClubSport Steering Wheel NASCAR V2 for Xbox & PC is not just about the present but also the future. The exchangeable QR1 Wheel-Side (ClubSport Quick Release Adapter) means you’re ready for an easy upgrade to the next-generation QR2 system (coming soon), ensuring that your racing setup remains on the cutting edge.
In conclusion, the ClubSport Steering Wheel NASCAR V2 for Xbox & PC is a testament to Fanatec’s dedication to delivering authentic and high-quality sim racing experiences. With its premium materials, versatile features, and future-proof design, it’s a must-have for anyone seeking the thrill of NASCAR racing in the comfort of their own sim rig. Get ready to hit the virtual oval with precision, style, and control like never before.
**Embrace Nostalgia with the Podium Steering Wheel Classic 2**
Step back in time and experience the allure of vintage road cars and historic racing cars with the Podium Steering Wheel Classic 2. This meticulously crafted wheel is designed to transport you to an era when driving was an art, and classic cars ruled the road.
**A Perfect Bundle of Authenticity**
The Podium Steering Wheel Classic 2 is a bundled offering, combining the excellence of the Podium Hub with the ClubSport Wheel Rim Classic 2. This combination ensures that you not only get an authentic classic driving experience but also a sturdy and reliable setup. The Podium Hub stands as the strongest and most compact way to attach a wheel rim to your Fanatec wheel base.
**Crafted with Premium Materials**
The rim of the Podium Steering Wheel Classic 2 exudes quality, featuring polished and anodized aluminum and a smooth genuine leather covering. Every touch conveys the fine craftsmanship and attention to detail that has gone into creating this wheel.
**An Authentic Driving Experience**
The large 35 cm diameter of this wheel is tailored to mimic the sensation of driving classic cars, offering a thin, large diameter rim that authentically recreates the feel of a bygone era. When you grip this wheel, you’ll feel like you’re behind the wheel of your favorite vintage automobile.
**Built for Strength and Durability**
The Podium Hub’s space frame design not only keeps the electronic components secure but also ensures it remains lightweight. The central hub, crafted from a single piece of anodized aluminum, guarantees maximum strength and durability, ensuring this wheel will be your faithful companion for years to come.
**Pure and Stripped-Back Design**
When you detach button clusters and shifter modules, the bare Podium Hub reveals itself in its purest form. This stripped-back design is a perfect match for the Classic wheel rim, showcasing the wheel’s elegance and simplicity.
**Endless Possibilities with Modular Elements**
The Podium Hub’s versatility shines when you attach different wheel rims, making it compatible with various modular components. Whether you opt for the ClubSport Button Cluster Pack, Podium Advanced Paddle Module, or Podium Button Module Endurance, this hub adapts effortlessly to your preferences and racing style.
In conclusion, the Podium Steering Wheel Classic 2 offers a unique opportunity to relive the glory days of classic car racing. Its authentic materials, vintage-inspired design, and adaptability through modular components make it a must-have for any enthusiast seeking to capture the essence of classic automobiles in their sim racing setup. So, grab the wheel, start your engines, and embark on a journey through time with the Podium Steering Wheel Classic 2.
Podium Porsche 911 GT3 R
Enter the world of the Podium Porsche 911 GT3 R, a wheel that not only elevates the aesthetics of your sim racing rig but also offers a top-tier sensory experience.
With a generous 320mm diameter, this wheel is not just a beauty; it’s a masterpiece of craftsmanship. It comes equipped with the Podium Button Module Endurance, a control center that caters to all your quick-access needs, particularly tailored for GT-style driving. This module boasts 2 rotary encoders that can be configured as 12-position switches or endless rotary encoders. A remarkable 2.7-inch OLED display replaces the previous 7-segment LED found on the BMW GT2 wheel, significantly enhancing functionality. Complementing this are the 9 high-intensity RGB RevLEDs and 6 RGB FlagLEDs, providing you with an abundance of real-time data at your fingertips. This wealth of information not only deepens the immersion of driving a GT car but also offers valuable insights to help you maximize your performance.
Your investment also includes the impressive Podium Advanced Paddle Module, a game-changer for standing starts with its dual-clutch analog paddles, among other potential applications. The four magnetic shifters add to the experience, delivering a precise and robust tactile feedback that enhances your overall driving sensation.
Undoubtedly, this complete wheel represents a significant investment. However, it is an investment in quality and presentation that is well worth every penny. The Podium Porsche 911 GT3 R wheel not only meets but exceeds expectations, leaving you far from disappointed. It’s a true masterpiece that not only enhances your sim racing setup but also immerses you in the world of high-performance GT racing like never before.
Clubsport BMW GT2 V2
Introducing the Clubsport BMW GT2 V2, a wheel that stands out as the ultimate choice when you’re limited to just one wheel. With its impressive 320mm diameter, this wheel exudes a sense of robustness and quality that’s immediately palpable when it rests in your hands. Crafted as a faithful replica of the real-life BMW GT2 car’s wheel, it delivers not only an authentic feel but also impeccable ergonomics and top-notch materials. Notably, the V2 version incorporates the ClubSport magnetic shifters, providing an unparalleled sense of quality and precision.
This wheel carries some weight, and when combined with its larger diameter, it might present a challenge when used with a CSL Elite wheelbase. However, our experience with this wheel on the DD1, DD2, and CSL DD has been exceptionally enjoyable.
It’s worth noting that the BMW GT2 V2 forgoes the inclusion of the two vibration motors integrated into the rim, a feature present in the V1 iteration. While this feature can be a nice addition, we haven’t found it to be particularly essential.
In sum, the Clubsport BMW GT2 V2 has earned its place as one of our most frequently used Fanatec wheels. Its solid construction and high-quality build make it an excellent choice for a wide range of vehicles, spanning from Formula cars to rally machines.
Furthermore, the V2 iteration introduces a modification to the Quick Release Design, offering users the option to upgrade to Fanatec’s QR2 system, enhancing the wheel’s adaptability and future-proofing your sim racing setup.
CSL Elite WRC
Introducing the CSL Elite WRC, a wheel that strikes a perfect balance between value and versatility in the Fanatec lineup. While cost-cutting measures are evident in certain aspects, like the plastic construction of the LED display atop the rim, the overall finish in critical areas remains commendably high-quality.
The newly incorporated quick release system stands out as a significant improvement, effectively eliminating the flex that was present in the previous version. The wheel boasts an attractive Alcantara finish, complete with precision stitching, giving it a premium feel. Moreover, the tactile experience of the buttons is equally impressive, ensuring a satisfying response during gameplay. Notably, the metal shifters provide robust and enjoyable tactile feedback that enhances the overall driving experience.
One of the standout features of the CSL Elite WRC is its lightweight design. While it may feel less substantial in your hands, this attribute comes with distinct advantages, particularly when paired with a wheelbase with less power, such as the CSL Elite Wheelbase.
The 300mm round wheel size strikes an ideal balance for versatility across a wide range of car choices and wheelbases. For instance, a larger rim might demand more torque to offset its leverage on the base, making it less suitable for the CSL Elite Wheelbase. On the other hand, the CSL Elite WRC’s wheel size is not so small that it compromises the realism when driving various vehicle types, including rally and GT3.
When evaluating the cost-effectiveness and adaptability of this wheel, it emerges as an intelligent choice for newcomers to the Fanatec ecosystem. It offers the opportunity to drive a diverse array of cars without the need to invest in multiple wheels, making it an excellent entry point for those seeking a wide-ranging sim racing experience.
McLaren GT3 V2
The original McLaren GT3 wheel was widely regarded as one of Fanatec’s standout sim racing wheels, offering exceptional value within the industry. It was lauded for its lightweight design, ergonomic build, feature-rich functionality, and its ability to cater to a wide range of cars and disciplines, particularly in GT and Formula racing, all without the burden of an exorbitant price tag.
Now, with the introduction of the CSL Elite McLaren GT3 V2, significant improvements have been made to an already outstanding wheel.
One of the key enhancements is the newly designed tool-less Simplified Quick Release system, which simplifies the process of changing wheels, providing users with added convenience. But the improvements don’t stop there.
The V2 wheel introduces two rotary encoders, replacing two of the three multi-position switches featured on the V1 model. This upgrade empowers users to send precise up-and-down signals to the simulator, enabling fine-tuned adjustments to critical parameters like brake bias and engine mapping. This level of control greatly enhances the overall driving experience, eliminating conflicts between the simulator and the encoder position.
Another noteworthy addition to the V2 wheel is the magnetic shifter. It offers a distinct tactile sensation compared to the paddle shifters of the V1 wheel. While preferences regarding the shifter may vary among individuals, many users have commended the well-defined and high-quality feel of these magnetic shifters.
Some have expressed concerns about the V2 wheel’s plastic design, suggesting it may feel cheap and exhibit slight flex throughout the rim. However, it’s essential to consider the exceptional value and functionality that this wheel offers, especially when taking its price point into account. Extensive testing of the V2 wheel with the DD2 direct drive wheelbase has not revealed significant issues with flex, to the point where it detracts from the overall driving experience. It’s worth noting that, with the included Simplified Quick Release, torque is limited on the DD1 and DD2 wheelbases. For those seeking additional torque, an upgrade option is available with the ClubSport Quick Release accessory.
Regarding the ClubSport Quick Release, opinions on its necessity vary. It’s worth noting that unless you own a DD1 or DD2 wheelbase, the upgrade may not provide a significant advantage, reinforcing the overall value of the CSL Elite McLaren GT3 V2 wheel.
In summary, the CSL Elite McLaren GT3 V2 wheel builds upon the success of its predecessor, offering an affordable yet feature-rich solution for sim racers. With enhanced control, magnetic shifters, and remarkable value for its price point, it continues to be a top choice in the sim racing community.
Thank you for taking the time to read our Buyer’s Guide review for many of the great wheels Fanatec has to offer. Throughout the article are blue highlighted links that will take you directly to the product of your choosing. If you purchase one of these wheels, we’ll receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. We thank you again, and look forward to bringing you more great content.
Fanatec – Fanatec’s Black Friday extravaganza isn’t confined to a single day; this year, they’re unleashing a week-long bonanza of spectacular deals and surprises! Brace yourself for daily revelations, with each offer lasting until Black Friday, November 24, or until stocks vanish. These deals are not just enticing; they’re also limited, adding a sense of urgency to your shopping spree. Don’t let the opportunity slip by – immerse yourself in a week of phenomenal offers during the entire Black Friday Week. Keep a keen eye on updates as Fanatec unveils new deals each day, ensuring you don’t miss a beat! Explore the excitement tailored to your region by selecting the Fanatec Black Friday shop below.
Trak Racer – Embark on a month-long thrill with Trak Racer’s exclusive Black November extravaganza! Revel in a 15% discount on the entire Trak Racer product lineup, making this November the prime time to upgrade your sim racing setup. But wait, the excitement doesn’t end there! Dive into the ultimate adrenaline rush by entering our Simracing package giveaway. Stand a chance to seize the coveted Ultimate Race Simulator, a gaming marvel valued at over €22,000! Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your sim racing experience and potentially bag this remarkable prize – it’s a celebration of speed and savings throughout the entire month!
US https://trakracer.com/?ref=10
EU https://trakracer.eu/?ref=10
AU https://trakracer.com.au/?ref=10
Moza Racing https://mozaracing.com/?ref=sksimracing
Apex Sim Racing https://www.apexsimracing.com/32259
Embark on a thrilling journey with SKSimRacing! As you explore our curated overview, keep in mind that by utilizing the provided links, you not only gain access to fantastic products but also contribute to the growth of SKSimRacing. We may receive a small percentage of the proceeds when you place an order through these links, and the best part? You never pay a dime extra! Your support fuels our commitment to maintaining and enhancing the website’s quality. It’s a win-win – you get top-notch products, and we get to continue delivering excellence. Join us in this symbiotic adventure where every click propels us towards even greater heights!
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