Revitalize Worn Alcantara?

[thstone]

The suede on my Alcantara covered Momo steering wheel is very worn after a few years of track racing. Its so worn that it feels slippery with my racing gloves.

As you can see, the suede is completely worn off under my left hand and the underlaying material is worn smooth and slick.

Does anyone know if this can be revitalized or roughened up in some way to eliminate the slickness or is it time to have the steering wheel re-covered?

I am tempted to hit it with some fine-grit sand paper to roughen it up but I don't know how long it would help and something that harsh can't be good for longevity.

[BYprodriver]

That's the problem with Alcantara, wears down quickly. It is fairly cheap so it shouldn't cost much to have recovered.

[particlewave]

Is it worn, or plastered down with hand grime? I've had decent results with just basic cleaning. Remove from car and clean with warm water and Dawn, using an old toothbrush. After its dry, fluff it back up by brushing gently with a fine, soft bristle wire brush.

[RedTele58]

Tom - you may want to check these guys out - I've not used them yet, but have heard good words about their work.

Craft Customs - Leather and Wood Grain Steering Wheels - Wood Dashes

[thstone]

Originally Posted by particlewave

Is it worn, or plastered down with hand grime? I've had decent results with just basic cleaning. Remove from car and clean with warm water and Dawn, using an old toothbrush. After its dry, fluff it back up by brushing gently with a fine, soft bristle wire brush.

Definitely worn (its actually pretty clean) - the soft material is gone.

[thstone]

Originally Posted by RedTele58

Tom - you may want to check these guys out - I've not used them yet, but have heard good words about their work.

Craft Customs - Leather and Wood Grain Steering Wheels - Wood Dashes

Thanks Rick - looks like they could definitely do the job!