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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
The Fanatec QR2 Quick Release sets a new standard in the world of sim racing and motorsport. Designed with precision and durability, this system ensures a seamless connection between your steering wheel and wheel base, providing an exceptional racing experience. Here’s a detailed review highlighting its standout features and performance:
Design and Construction
The QR2 Wheel-Side features an all-aluminum construction, boasting robustness and longevity. The diecast aluminum is CNC-machined and finished with a sleek black anodized coat, offering both aesthetic appeal and durability. This premium build quality is evident from the moment you handle the quick release, conveying a sense of confidence in its performance and reliability.
Mechanical Design and Fit
One of the most impressive aspects of the QR2 is its new mechanical design, which guarantees rock-solid performance. The tapered shape ensures a perfect, tight fit automatically, while the precision manufacturing tolerances contribute to a robust and secure connection. The spring-loaded locking pins enhance security and ease of use, making the QR2 significantly stronger and more reliable than its predecessor, the QR1.
Self-Aligning and Protection Mechanism
The QR2 features a self-aligning mechanism that protects the electrical contacts, ensuring they are always correctly positioned and shielded from potential damage. This thoughtful design element is crucial for maintaining the longevity and performance of both the quick release system and the connected devices.
Motorsport Heritage and Track-Developed Performance
Developed for real-world motorsport applications, the QR2’s mechanical coupling was initially used in the 2022 BMW M4 GT3 race car. This pedigree is evident in its performance, providing a level of robustness and reliability expected in high-stakes racing environments. The Pro variant is even tailored for future motorsport use, showcasing its forward-thinking design and application.
Hot-Swap Capability
The QR2’s hot-swap feature is a game-changer for sim racers. Spring-loaded locking pins allow for fast and secure switching of steering wheels without needing to restart the simulation or wheel base. This convenience is a significant advantage, especially for those who use multiple wheel styles for different racing disciplines.
Ease of Use
Attaching a steering wheel with the QR2 is incredibly straightforward. Simply bring the wheel towards the base and push to fit—there’s no need to touch the quick release mechanism. This user-friendly design ensures that everything just clicks into place, enhancing the overall racing experience.
Compatibility
The QR2 Quick Release is compatible with a wide range of Fanatec wheel bases and steering wheels, including but not limited to the Podium Wheel Base DD1, DD2, CSL DD, and various CSL and ClubSport steering wheels. This extensive compatibility makes it a versatile upgrade for any Fanatec setup.
Final Thoughts
The Fanatec QR2 Quick Release is a top-tier addition to any sim racing setup, combining cutting-edge design, ease of use, and exceptional durability. Whether you’re a professional racer or a dedicated sim racing enthusiast, the QR2 ensures a reliable and immersive racing experience, maintaining the high standards expected in both virtual and real-world motorsport applications.
Thank you again for taking the time to read our article. Highlighted above in Blue are affiliate links for the QR2. If you decide to make a purchase, we’ll earn a small commission, at no additional cost to you!
Featured
Unleash the Thrill: Exploring the Ultimate Racing Experience with the Fanatec ClubSport Racing Wheel F1®
The ClubSport Racing Wheel F1® is a revolutionary addition to the world of Formula 1® sim racing, offering enthusiasts an unparalleled level of precision and performance. At its core lies the advanced Formula Steering Wheel, boasting a compact 270 mm diameter designed for lightning-fast movements and reactions on the virtual track. Its iconic blue forged carbon finish, paired with genuine leather grips, not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also delivers an authentic racing feel that immerses users in the thrill of Formula 1® racing.
Officially licensed by Formula 1®, this wheel is a testament to Fanatec’s commitment to authenticity and realism. The inclusion of programmable RGB RevLEDs and magnetic shifters adds another layer of immersion, allowing users to monitor motor RPM and optimal shifting points with precision. Additionally, the wheel features a comprehensive array of inputs, including 11 buttons, multi-position switches, and thumb encoders, all ergonomically laid out to facilitate quick access and muscle memory training.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal and intuitive inputs, the ClubSport Racing Wheel F1® is backed by cutting-edge technology to deliver unmatched force feedback and torque performance. The 15 Nm ClubSport DD+ Wheel Base, custom-designed in Germany, combines PlayStation®5 console compatibility with Fanatec Direct Drive technology to provide lightning-fast response times and incredibly dynamic force feedback. Engineered for consistency, the wheel base features patented FluxBarrier technology, ensuring crystal-clear force feedback information in every driving situation.
One of the standout features of the ClubSport DD+ Wheel Base is its exceptional cooling capabilities, making it the most thermally stable wheel base in its class. This ensures consistent torque output and force feedback even during the most extended gaming sessions. Moreover, the inclusion of FullForce technology, a new force feedback protocol tailored specifically for Fanatec Direct Drive, delivers high-frequency vibrations for a truly immersive driving experience.
With its precision response, lightning-fast acceleration, and comprehensive compatibility, the ClubSport Racing Wheel F1® redefines what is possible in Formula 1® sim racing. Whether you’re a casual enthusiast or a seasoned pro, this wheel is guaranteed to elevate your gaming experience to new heights, allowing you to feel the precision of Formula 1® with every lap you take.
Thank you for taking the time to read our Fanatec Clubsport Racing Wheel F1 review. 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.
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!
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