I like a few others have had problems with the emblem bending. It was like that when I bought the car used. Now I am not shy about using the horn, but I am more like the constant gentle user, and always at the right time. I am a mechanical designer and machinist, but found the concave shape and complexity something I should work up to. I made a couple of spares, but each was not up to my standards. I got the shape right in black, left out the slits in the wings, and added the red center as a match to the rest of the car. I glued it in place, and it is holding up well. I would like to add a small logo in the middle, but have been unable to find one small enough. So I have left it without a pocket for a future MC emblem. It does stand away from the dome of the center, giving a more 3D effect. Like my other designs, the Mini lends itself to be looked over. My last car, my supercharged BMW, was in a different design class. A bit more understated was the rule. I think the Mini is due for design a bit more overstated. Thanks for looking.

 

That's sharp! You should email the owner at Aesthetic Creations - he can do domed emblems of all shapes and sizes. I bet he could make something custom for these, then you could sell them. Me personally, I'd love one in Purple Haze.

 

nice job!! Looks really good, even without an emblem

 

I'm in need of a new center emblem as well. I'm surprised none of the aftermarket have made replacements. How did you remove the old emblem?

 

Thanks for positive responses. I know that AC makes a replacement. I know AC was slammed on their production, and I thought I could do something different and more on my schedule. As for making more, I could, but could not match AC price. Mine are made out of 1/2" black acrylic, spun on a lathe and them milled for shape. The concave shape that bonds to the steering wheel was tricky, but the end result was to have something that would not bend when the horn was used. I don't have purple acrylic, but could spin a center out of that color or most any other. Removal is a bit tricky. They are made from formed aluminum, with tabs that are bent from behind. Removal would be a pair of needle nose pliers and some sharp dikes. Don't just pull, you might damage the slots. Cut, pull, and bend, that is how I did it. I think they were underdesigned, based on the idea that in an accident, you don't want something too weighty hitting you when the airbag goes.

 

cool ! too bad my 2004 has the mini wings built in to the decal so i have to get the whole middle decal