Steering wheel hub/ horn contact fix

[Linda]

Here is a pic of the steering wheel hub, front and back. Hub was pretty stuck on but puller I got didn’t work as screws did not fit. Managed to get it off.
This is what the copper arm rides on for the horn to work. As you can see the arm has worn thru the thin copper which is bonded to a plastic ring, allowing the plastic to show thru. Thus the horn won’t work. Or at least this is one of the reasons a horn won’t work, I think.
So 2 choices I thought of. One, copper conductive paint to repair the worn spots. Two, get a super thin piece of copper, make a ring and somehow bond it to the other piece.
Not sure if this hub piece is available, or if it is even a Nissan piece, since I have an aftermarket steering wheel.
The wire has to be resoldered also since it is missing a few strands.
Thoughts?

40B76321-B73A-41EC-9F58-EB2F13B3A6AB.jpeg

A919D07E-0E21-4FF8-80F1-03FE6C65D21D.jpeg

Linda

[Linda]

Like painting the Golden Gate Bridge, I find that I have been here before...
Did a search in archives where this was discussed. This is a Grant to Momo adapter, part #4581
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/grt-4581
Slow shipping for Summit and Amazon is out of stock.
Anyone using anything else other than the Momo adapter which did not quite work. Looking for a Grant to Momo adapter.
Thx

Linda

[itsa68]

Just thought

Maybe you can get a copper disc.
Something from Amazon such as :Copper Disc Metal, (24 Gauge, 0.5 MM) Diameter 5 inches Full Circle Shape, 99.9% Purity, Custom Sizes Available
ASIN# B07GMWV41P

copper disc.jpg

The inside diameter can be made by drilling a hole in the center, then inscribing/cutting the inside diameter using a sharp trammel.
You can make trammel from a stick and 2 drywall screws. The center screw of the trammel can be inserted thru the disc center hole and fastened into a plywood backing plate. The second trammel screw set to distance of radius of the inside diameter in order cut the hole.

trammel.jpg

Bond the disc to the plate as required.

Cheers
Ray B.

[Linda]

Maybe you can get a copper disc

Thx, Ray.
My friend suggested the same thing, a disk from an electrical supply house. Super thin copper sheet over the existing one. I would do that if there was no other option. But I thought some might have used other hubs..... This Grant to Momo hub is specifically for Datsun 1600/2000. It fits very well.I think I will just order a new 4581. But was interested also in the copper conductive paint also as a possible quick fix, paint then sand smooth. Might try a small amount just to investigate.
Always good to think of fix it options in case you have to, while exploring what other people have done.
Not as many aftermarket wheels on Roadsters but I love my wood Momo and would never go back to the larger size OEM

Linda

[theunz]

I would think that the arm would rub through the paint in no time.

[Linda]

Yes maybe you are right. I did think that some dielectic grease could preserve the surface somewhat.
Linda

[fj20spl311]

The arm usually wears also. You might be able to make a new arm that contacts in a slightly different location or even just bend your arm to contack at a larger diameter. The arm being rough is what caused the wear.

[Nissanman]

Clearly you are steering way too much

[C.Costine]

I agree with Phil, it looks like the arm would be the easier place to repair it. Possibly as simple as soldering a new end on it with a larger contact area.

[fj20spl311]

delete

[Curtis]

I would try to get a bronze disc and bond it on, much tougher. Not sure about the conductivity vs. copper. You may not have room for the additional thickness to add a disc.

[Linda]

Something like this, for discussions sake, cut to size and bonded on?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/COPPER-SHEET-P ... SwNSxVL~2Y

Linda

[itsa68]

I'm in for the cut and bond. Simple and its done..or, move the contact and wear a new spot.

Cheers
Ray B.

[fj20spl311]

Bonding is a good idea, maybe make a contact arm also. Post a picture of your contact.
I usually buy my metal supplies from industrial metal supply. They have been open for call ahead orders, picked up at will call.
Got an email yesterday that they will be opening on Saturday. There is one in the LA area.

[Linda]

I have used Industrial Metal Supply before, for another project not car related.
I actually decided to order a thin sheet of copper, just to see if this works.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1-Copper-Sheet ... SwRDJcHAEh

The contact arm seems pretty smooth but I can wet sand the end of it to make it better.
Otherwise this thin piece should work. Should I use Gorilla glue to bond it?

Linda