HELP!! What's involved in swapping a 2-spoke to a 3 spoke steering wheel?
 

I have a '02 Mini Cooper S with the Multifunction 2-spoke steering wheel but I want to get the later model 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel.

I have access to the "shell" of the 3-spoke steering wheel....minus the airbag/airbag cover and the Multifunctional steering wheel buttons..........the seller swapped his MCS factory wheel to the JCW wheel.....hence my opportunity :thumbsup:

Are the parts required expensive and will the Multifunctions of the 2 wheels compatible?

MANY THANKS :) :thumbsup:

I have done this mod on my '02. None of the 2 spoke parts will work with the 3 spoke wheel. You lose one function with the 3 spoke that I have found (unless I haven't found it)and that is the ability to switch between sources. ie. CD/Radio/CD Changer. The parts are not cheap new. I believe classicmini has the best prices with the NAM discount, otherwise keep an eye out in the Marketplace or ebay. Below is a link to a breakdown of what is needed and part numbers. The actaul swap is about 15 minutes once you have everything you need. Just be sure to disconnect the battery for about 10 minutes to discharge the air bag capacitor or you will get an air bag light and only the dealer can clear it.


http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...96&hg=32&fg=35

I find this so humorous 'cause when the 3-spoke wheel was introduced it stirred up such a negative clamor, that those who got 3-spokes wanted to swap them out to the (then) preferred 2-spoke wheel hee hee :lol: my how times have changed! :nod:

Thanks for the quick response ChiliRedS :thumbsup:

I "feel" the 3-spoke is chunkier....could be wrong, but I love the look as the 2-spoker seems boring :lol:

Wish me luck :nod:

No problem. PM me if you have any questions. I also like the feel and look of the 3 spoke. I should be getting my JCW wheel this week which is even thicker than the stock 3 spoke.

Here is an excellent writeup and should answer all of your questions.
http://web.mac.com/jonnieoh/iWeb/My%...%20How-To.html
Steve

E X C E L L E N T :thumbsup:

Thank you all!!!!