I just finished installing a JCW Leather/Alcantara steering wheel on my R56 thanks to Outmotoring.com. Originally thought the R52 wheel would fit but trust me it doesn't. I also mistakenly thought you had to cut holes in the sides of the wheel to get the airbag out like you do on the R52 - you don't.

All you have to do is disconnect the battery. Insert a small screw driver or any other long thin metal tool into the hole on the bottom of the steering wheel to release the airbag. Remove the airbag connections. Unscrew the 16mm bolt holding the wheel on. Remove the wheel - the easiest steering wheel to remove from a hub I have ever seen - it slid off very easily. Change over the multi-function controls and install the JCW in the reverse order. Took maybe 20 minutes including trying to find a 16mm socket in the tool chest.

I'm getting pretty close to having my Mini personalized.

 

can i get the jcw wheel if i don't have the multi function? also my steering wheel is a 2 spoke.

 

NICE

 

Very nice indeed! If you don't mind me asking, what are the other items connected to your tach?

 

The one on the left is the dealer option navigation. On the right what looks attached to the tach is a Sirius starmate attached to the a/c vent.

 

Oh yeah you'll love this upgrade...different MINI almost..Go Karting!

 

Verrrrrrrrrrrry nice!

 

Schweeeeeeeeeeeeeet!!!

 

That's nice. I really wish I had not wasted money on the wood mf steering wheel. I let nostalgia get out of control. How can I rationalize one of these now?

 

I am getting one of those wheels!! Just after I get.........rims, springs, sway bar, and speakers.

 

EBAY??

none of those changes gives you near the satisfaction the JCW wheel gives you,...Oh Yeah...NONE of those.

 

I know that wheel is nice, and it probably feels sweet too. I had a Momo wheel in my previous car with the alacantra, very nice!! But I want wheels and a drop first. Anyway Two on the wheel.

 

WILL work with or without the MFSW. You can also order the JCW carbon pieces if you do NOT have the MFSW. Check it out. Mine goes on tomorrow! Can't wait!

 

I put mine on and I LOVE it! I wasn't able to drive the car for a few days due to the audio being torn apart. However, now the driving experience is SO much better. Just like an ALTA short shifter where you feel it EVERY time you shift, this JCW wheel is the same way. Every time you turn the wheel you get to enhoy it. I swear is handles better with this! Also, I was able to secure a few at a reduced price for other members that want one. Hit me up for special pricing. Thanks NAM!

 

I did a 1500 mile drive last sunday, and am verry glad we bought the alcantara JCW steering wheel, it feels so much nicer.
And Adam, what's up with our missing piece for the cat-back exhaust (the horn shaped piece)?

M.de Keijzer
The Netherlands

 

Anyone know what the recommended torque to use on the steering wheel bolt is for the R56? The R50/2/3 was 63nM (M14x1.5 thread).