I'm looking to buy what appears to be a VG '62 544. I've read all the warnings about what to look for in buying a PV. This one seems to pass muster on all the issues. The only thing is I think the PO went overboard with dove gray paint 'cause even the steering wheel is the same color as the exterior, although it looks to be a good steering wheel. Even the insert between the wheel & the dash is gray. Question: Aren't all 544 steering wheels black? I thought so but maybe not. Not exactly an earth-shaking issue but appreciate your opinions. Thanks.

Cal

The wheel and cowl between it and the dash were originally black.

Might not be a dealbreaker, as the correct parts are available, but I'd be wondering what else isn't correct about the car. If that's a priority, anyway.

Best,

Cameron
Rose City

Its not an unusual "custom" mod. Wheels can crack badly and the outer gloss finish wears off in the commonly held areas. Good wheels can be hard to find so epoxy repairs of the cracks and then a few coats of two pack can bring them back like new. Might not be quite as durable as original but will look very nice. Doesn't have to be black and having it match the interior is very "American". I know of an Amazon with a matching red wheel and that looks very stylish. I'm mostly an as factory person but restoring a scruffy wheel in another colour as a spare would be an interesting project.

For what it's worth, the steering wheel on my 544 is black.

I know some VERY early 444s had white steering wheels.
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http://dylans544.blogspot.com

I think that it is fairly safe to assume that the PV544 did not come from the factory with a clock. four-way flashers, automatic transmission, over-drive, air conditioning, power brakes, power steering, cruise control OR A GRAY STEERING WHEEL.

All I've seen were black