65GS.com - Buick Gran Sport Enthusiasts!
Interior & Tops => Interiors => Topic started by: Loren At 65GS on February 21, 2018, 09:56:41 PM
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This thread is an inquiry to see how much interest in a steering wheel group purchase from Koch's.
First , a refresh of the information I gathered January 2017.
Please keep in mind, prices may be out of date.
The wheel is recast in a poly urethane plastic which has a UV stabilizer in it. It is then finished in your color choice with a poly urethane paint.
This is 2017 pricing, I will need to call and verify pricing.
Single price is $450
A quantity of 5 or more would run $400 each plus the return shipping.
Shipping is estimated at $40 - $60 with $1000 insurance.
They guarantee their work with a lifetime warranty.
Turn around time is 8 -12 weeks , pending time of year.
Here we go !
Loren
PS 3/23/18 : I edited this to clarify the cost savings and also add the necessary shipped by date for a core.
Core must be shipped by April 6, 2018
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Thanks Loren!
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Loren - I'm in for one.
Dwaine
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Loren,
Might as well put me down for one.
Thanks!
Mark
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Loren,
Might as well put me down for one.
Thanks!
Mark
Same here. BUT I need to locate my spare wheel - no clue where I put it.
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Dear Loren, Jim, Dwaine, Mark, Dan, and mid-60s Buick "detail oriented types,"
Since I settled this problem another way, I won't be able to join in on this but I certainly wish you all the best of luck on this project! :thumbsup:
As long as some of you are considering getting a brand new replacement steering wheel, you might start scratching your heads over the problem of restoring the horn bar. It certainly shouldn't be a problem to have these parts sent to be rechromed. So the 64-dollar question is whether or not there is some clever way to repaint the black background.
Restoring both parts of the steering wheel would certainly be very satisfying. After all that is the closest part of the car to you when you drive it!
Good luck! Edouard :occasion14:
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Please put me on the list. Am I correct that I need a donor to participate? Rob
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As long as some of you are considering getting a brand new replacement steering wheel, you might start scratching your heads over the problem of restoring the horn bar. It certainly shouldn't be a problem to have these parts sent to be rechromed. So the 64-dollar question is whether or not there is some clever way to repaint the black background.
Mark A. has climbed this mountain. I can't find the thread.
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So far, the following interested :
Dwaine
Mark
Dan H. X 2
Rob K.
Todd
Michael K
Jim M.
Tony G X2
Steven R
Bill S. X2
Loren
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It is then finished in your color choice with a poly urethane paint.
Loren -
Do you think it is possible to have the wheel fully-prepped for paint, but not actually painted? I know black is a safe bet, but I don't have a car (yet) for this wheel to go on (some would call such a statement a sickness hahaha)
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It is then finished in your color choice with a poly urethane paint.
Loren -
Do you think it is possible to have the wheel fully-prepped for paint, but not actually painted? I know black is a safe bet, but I don't have a car (yet) for this wheel to go on (some would call such a statement a sickness hahaha)
That I don't know, I can certainly ask them. I wasn't able to call today.
Loren
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Dear RobK, Dan, Loren, and mid-60s Buick detail perfectionists,
. . . you might start scratching your heads over the problem of restoring the horn bar.
Mark A. has climbed this mountain. I can't find the thread.
I tried to find any thread that mentioned restoring horn bars and I only found this thread from early 2009:
http://65gs.com/board/index.php?topic=19.msg417#msg417 (http://65gs.com/board/index.php?topic=19.msg417#msg417)
Do you know the 65GS.com handle of Mark A.? It might be easier to search for the thread by going through every post made by Mark A. or using Google to search for thread about horn bars made by Mark A.
Cheers, Edouard
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Mark Ascher
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Dear RobK, Dan, Loren, and mid-60s Buick detail perfectionists,
. . . you might start scratching your heads over the problem of restoring the horn bar.
Mark A. has climbed this mountain. I can't find the thread.
I tried to find any thread that mentioned restoring horn bars and I only found this thread from early 2009:
[url]http://65gs.com/board/index.php?topic=19.msg417#msg417[/url] ([url]http://65gs.com/board/index.php?topic=19.msg417#msg417[/url])
Do you know the 65GS.com handle of Mark A.? It might be easier to search for the thread by going through every post made by Mark A. or using Google to search for thread about horn bars made by Mark A.
Cheers, Edouard
Probably is in Mark's restoration thread. I didn't go through it but here is a link to the start of it.
http://65gs.com/board/index.php?topic=20.0 (http://65gs.com/board/index.php?topic=20.0)
Loren
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Thanks Loren for the link! I'll check into it tomorrow.
Silly question but just to be absolutely sure. Are 1964-65 steering wheels identical? I have a friend with a 1964 Skylark would might be interested if it would truly fit.
Cheers, Edouard :occasion14:
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My Buick parts book that goes up to '69 shows it used '64 as a Deluxe , '65 as Deluxe and '66 also.
There were two steering wheel designs used in the Specials and Skylarks.
My understanding, in '64 the Deluxe wheel was an optional feature. In '65 the Deluxe steering wheel was standard in a Skylark or GS and an option on a Special. In '66 the Deluxe wheel was again standard in a Skylark or GS. The horn bar differs from '65 to '66 with the horn button itself.
Loren
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Thanks Loren for the detailed list of which cars could use these steering wheels!
I didn't realized that only the horn bar was changed for 1966.
Cheers, Edouard
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Dear Dan, Chuck, Loren, and mid-60s Buick restorers seeking clever solutions,
Mark A. has climbed this mountain. I can't find the thread.
Probably is in Mark's restoration thread. I didn't go through it but here is a link to the start of it.
Well, I went through Mark's restoration thread and cruised a bit in his other postings. I didn't find any reference to horn bar restoration. I also tried to make some forum searches but also came up empty. Does anyone else has an idea where this horn bar restoration technique might be written up?
Cheers, Edouard
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Mark Ascher
That guy doesn't know anything.
Mark
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The horn bar is one I grabbed from Loren's stash. He let me pick from 3 or 4. It did not need rechroming.
Decent ones for 65 shouldn't be too hard to find. I just cleaned it up, masked and repainted the center of
the bar with the ribs and BUICK letters. Masked around that section, shot it with flat black, and rubbed
the letters and ribs off with a rag. Then some polish to complete.
Mark
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Dear Mark and mid-60s Buick "know-it-alls," . . .
Mark Ascher
That guy doesn't know anything.
(http://www.canebas.org/WeatherCat/Forum_support_documents/Custom_emoticons/wink_smile_triangle.gif) . . . Gee whiz! For somebody who doesn't know anything he sure is gabby! . . . . . (http://www.canebas.org/WeatherCat/Forum_support_documents/Custom_emoticons/Laughing_LOL.gif)
The horn bar is one I grabbed from Loren's stash. He let me pick from 3 or 4. It did not need rechroming.
Decent ones for 65 shouldn't be too hard to find. I just cleaned it up, masked and repainted the center of
the bar with the ribs and BUICK letters. Masked around that section, shot it with flat black, and rubbed
the letters and ribs off with a rag. Then some polish to complete.
Seriously, not everyone has access to Loren's stash, so if you horn bar is in sorry shape - rechroming might be in order. Also, if you want super bonus points (and/or need to rechrome some other stuff anyway) . . . . . you see my point! :icon_biggrin:
Other than that, your technique looks applicable no matter the horn bar. Anyone with some restoration expertise should be able to pull this off. So if anybody is on the fence about getting a reproduction steering wheel, there is a straightforward technique to restore the horn bar once you have your reproduction steering wheel to go along with it.
So that excuse is . . . . .blasted to bits!! :violent5:
Not trying to generate some sales or anything . . . . . :laughing7:
Cheers, Edouard :occasion14:
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[/quote]
That guy doesn't know anything.
Mark
[/quote]
I think he knows plenty, he just didn't know better when I persuaded him to do a body off restoration. LOL
Loren
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Hi,
One word of caution regarding rechroming the horn bar is die cast so very expensive to repair, from what I understand each pit has to be drilled out and then back filled with silver solder. The base netal is zinc so melts very easily.
I had a set of backup deletes rechromed about 4 years ago eith maybe a dozen pits between the 2, cost 400 bucks, I had a worse set they wanted 500 each side so you can see the cost goes up quickly.
Either way start with the nicest core you can.
Regards,
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Very good points Jim.
Loren
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Dear Jim, Loren, and mid-60s Buick restorers,
One word of caution regarding rechroming the horn bar is die cast so very expensive to repair, from what I understand each pit has to be drilled out and then back filled with silver solder. The base netal is zinc so melts very easily.
As much as it might a cautionary note, it is still very helpful to include it on this thread. There are all kinds of people interested in 1964-66 Buicks including serious collectors. After all, Pete Phillips, the Buick Bugle editor, had purchased a 1965 GS. The difference between a collector buying a 1964-66 Buick and something else could be the reassurance that a first-class restoration was practical. Such a collector might find this thread and see that the steering could be replaced. Including the technique for restoring the horn bar completes "the package." With that knowledge in hand, buying and restoring a 1964-66 Buick becomes that much more desirable.
Forums usually have a lot of knowledge, but unfortunately isn't particularly well organized. When it could be important, it is a good idea to collect what is known in one place so that those who might need it can find it easily.
Cheers, Edouard :occasion14:
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Forums usually have a lot of knowledge, but unfortunately isn't particularly well organized. When it could be important, it is a good idea to collect what is known in one place so that those who might need it can find it easily.
Cheers, Edouard :occasion14:
I concur with that statement and in that regard, I have started working on getting those items more organized. Suggestions always welcome.
65GS.com is our community, not mine,
Loren
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Dear Loren and mid-60s Buick owners seeking knowledge,
I concur with that statement and in that regard, I have started working on getting those items more organized. Suggestions always welcome.
Sorry if that sounded like a criticism. As far as I know forums simply are somewhat ornery and difficult to organize. I also provide technical support for some Macintosh Weather Software and in that capacity there is also a Wiki (like Wikipedia.) However, the Wiki software is clumsy and the hints and tips associated with a single piece of software isn't an overwhelming task. If we were to decide to document everything that might be worth tracking for these cars - where would we start? :icon_scratch:
My scheme was a perhaps weak, but realistic attempt to "squirrel together" bits of information that might be needed at the same time under one topic. If somebody considers getting a reproduction wheel, what to do about the horn bar is a natural next question. Leaving the pair together will hopefully help someone who is wondering what to do.
65GS.com is our community, not mine,
Yes, it is and we can all contribute to interconnecting what is on 65GS.com. It is relatively easy to make a link to another thread on 65GS.com. I can't explain the process this minute but I could do that later. Whenever one post reminds us of another, it is a great idea to point the conversation to that previous posting. That way you don't have to type over the same answer and useful posts from the past remain relevant. It's late over here, but I'll try to explain in a few days.
Cheers, Edouard :occasion14:
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Short of an online book, forums work 'okay'. There is tons of info on this site, but like any forum, info gets pushed further back in the line as time goes on. 'Stickys' help, keeping the most useful topics at the top of the post list.
The search function here works much better than most other sites.
I have trouble with Facebook.... there is no organization, no categories, just a timeline full of haphazard comments. Can you even search for anything? I simply don't use it.
I tend to keep my own notes. If there is a useful bit of info in a post, I simply copy/paste and save it in a Notepad file that may simply be titled (for example) 'Transmission'. I end up with a document that is composed of one-liners of useful info. I try to include the posters name (for credit) and a link if there is additional info to be found in the original post.
We could add another section to the site composed of articles. It would likely be the same info in the forums but organized in a different manner. It would take considerable time to compose. Would it be worthwhile?
One of the more notable sites in the history of online Buicks is Georges site at:
http://buickperformanceclub.com/ (http://buickperformanceclub.com/)
Not a forum, primarily articles, and lots of great info.
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Dear Loren and mid-60s Buick owners seeking knowledge,
I concur with that statement and in that regard, I have started working on getting those items more organized. Suggestions always welcome.
Sorry if that sounded like a criticism. As far as I know forums simply are somewhat ornery and difficult to organize. I also provide technical support for some Macintosh Weather Software and in that capacity there is also a Wiki (like Wikipedia.) However, the Wiki software is clumsy and the hints and tips associated with a single piece of software isn't an overwhelming task. If we were to decide to document everything that might be worth tracking for these cars - where would we start? :icon_scratch:
My scheme was a perhaps weak, but realistic attempt to "squirrel together" bits of information that might be needed at the same time under one topic. If somebody considers getting a reproduction wheel, what to do about the horn bar is a natural next question. Leaving the pair together will hopefully help someone who is wondering what to do.
65GS.com is our community, not mine,
Yes, it is and we can all contribute to interconnecting what is on 65GS.com. It is relatively easy to make a link to another thread on 65GS.com. I can't explain the process this minute but I could do that later. Whenever one post reminds us of another, it is a great idea to point the conversation to that previous posting. That way you don't have to type over the same answer and useful posts from the past remain relevant. It's late over here, but I'll try to explain in a few days.
Cheers, Edouard :occasion14:
Not taken a s criticism at all. We will eventually get the important pieces organized. At least I hope. lol
Loren
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Short of an online book, forums work 'okay'. There is tons of info on this site, but like any forum, info gets pushed further back in the line as time goes on. 'Stickys' help, keeping the most useful topics at the top of the post list.
The search function here works much better than most other sites.
I have trouble with Facebook.... there is no organization, no categories, just a timeline full of haphazard comments. Can you even search for anything? I simply don't use it.
I tend to keep my own notes. If there is a useful bit of info in a post, I simply copy/paste and save it in a Notepad file that may simply be titled (for example) 'Transmission'. I end up with a document that is composed of one-liners of useful info. I try to include the posters name (for credit) and a link if there is additional info to be found in the original post.
We could add another section to the site composed of articles. It would likely be the same info in the forums but organized in a different manner. It would take considerable time to compose. Would it be worthwhile?
One of the more notable sites in the history of online Buicks is Georges site at:
[url]http://buickperformanceclub.com/[/url] ([url]http://buickperformanceclub.com/[/url])
Not a forum, primarily articles, and lots of great info.
Some good points Walt. Been a long time since I looked at the performance site.
Thanks,
Loren
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I’m now in for 2 (instead of 1).
We ready to get this started?
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I finally called Koch's today. They are offering a $50 discount on one time multiple order. No further discount now.
Payment to Koch's , due upon completion .
Turn around time is 10 -12 weeks.
Koch's will paint in any color including custom color.
Finished wheel can be left in primed finish, no discount for not being painted to finish color and does not affect their lifetime warranty.
Loren
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Do you think it is possible to have the wheel fully-prepped for paint, but not actually painted? I know black is a safe bet, but I don't have a car (yet) for this wheel to go on (some would call such a statement a sickness hahaha)
Koch's will paint in any color including custom color.
Finished wheel can be left in primed finish, no discount for not being painted to finish color and does not affect their lifetime warranty.
Loren
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Loren.
I would like to get in on this.
One wheel. 1964 Skylark.
My interior is a medium blue, not quite Aqua, but not a pure blue. So I don't know what color to call it.
Thanks,
Michael
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Put me down for one in black. I need to decide on the Astro Blue car.
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This wheel fits well and has grown on me. Anyone know what it?s from, maybe it could be sold and replaced? I do like the tri-shield on it though.
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I think a 1965 LeSabre. But the Electra's had them too. It's 1965/1966 years.
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Hi Loren I've been reading this post and I just want to make sure I understand, Koch's is going to recast our original wheels. So I will need to get an extra wheel so I don't tie up my GS for however long it takes to have it done ? if so when do I need to have this extra wheel by ?
Tony
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Hi Loren I've been reading this post and I just want to make sure I understand, Koch's is going to recast our original wheels. So I will need to get an extra wheel so I don't tie up my GS for however long it takes to have it done ? if so when do I need to have this extra wheel by ?
Tony
Yes, a core is needed.
The original wheel is stripped down to bare steel frame. Then new UV inhibitor poly urethane plastic is molded to the original frame.
I do have a few cores out in the shop that I could make available. Some 25-30 years ago, I was looking into finding a company to do just this process. But I had no luck at that time and just kept the wheels around.
Loren
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Loren, Now I understand the process. Yes I want in on one, let me see if I can get a used wheel around here if not I will take up your offer on one of yours.
I never kept any of the wheels from all the cars that I parted out years ago because as you said there were no companies doing that type of restoration at the time.
Tony
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Loren , is the $50 off for the whole order, or is that $50 off per piece?
And, has anybody yet seen a '65 Deluxe wheel like ours By Koch's already finished?
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I've got a core if anybody needs it. $50
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Loren , is the $50 off for the whole order, or is that $50 off per piece?
And, has anybody yet seen a '65 Deluxe wheel like ours By Koch's already finished?
Steven,
The $50 is on each wheel, not per order. So if someone has two wheels done, they save $50 per wheel , making their savings $100 total.
Yes, McNew had one done last year. Here is a link to the original thread with a picture of the wheel he had done.
http://65gs.com/board/index.php?topic=3280.15 (http://65gs.com/board/index.php?topic=3280.15)
When I called Koch's the other day, I addressed McNew's comment regarding the horn bar fitment . Theresa at Koch's , replied that the wheel should have been sent back for them to correct because they guarantee their quality.
I would be willing to send Koch's a horn bar so that they can double check the fit.
Loren
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I would be willing to send Koch's a horn bar so that they can double check the fit.
Loren -
Great idea on the horn bar - thank you.
I'm ready to ship my wheels as early as next week - so I'm ready whenever everyone else is too. Keep us posted. Thanks!
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Put me down for one. Red (You know the color!).
Gonna have a nice red complete sport wheel available for somebody when this one comes in... :icon_biggrin:
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Put me down for one. Red (You know the color!).
Gonna have a nice red complete sport wheel available for somebody when this one comes in... :icon_biggrin:
Alright Steven , I'll get you on the list.
Thank you,
Loren
Post script : Now up to ten wheels to be done. I will call Koch's again next week to get details for shipping.
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I just got off the phone with Koch's.
Since there are now a minimum of 10 wheels to be done, I negotiated the price to $375 per wheel plus shipping.
Along with that, they will all have to be sent to Koch's in a timely manner. I will be putting a form together for you to fill out and include with the wheel. This will assure the group price and will have the shipping address.
Payment will be directly to Koch's by each individual upon the completion of the wheel by Koch's.
Loren
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I just got off the phone with Koch's.
Since there are now a minimum of 10 wheels to be done, I negotiated the price to $375 per wheel plus shipping.
Along with that, they will all have to be sent to Koch's in a timely manner. I will be putting a form together for you to fill out and include with the wheel. This will assure the group price and will have the shipping address.
Payment will be directly to Koch's by each individual upon the completion of the wheel by Koch's.
Loren
Great negotiation skills Loren!
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Nice! :occasion14:
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After speaking with Koch's today, they are asking for all the steering wheels to be in by a definite date.
Koch's also said they are 12 weeks out now. With that time frame in mind, I think that all the wheels should be shipped no later then April 6, 2018.
I will be sending you each an email with a form to fill out and include with your steering wheel.
Loren
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Nice job Loren!
But I 'm just a little confused. Toward the beginning of the thread, you said Koch's said 400 each for five or more. Then later, you mentioned a discount of 50. Now a price of 375. Where does the 50 play in?
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Koch's regular price is $450 each. I had originally got them to agree to a $50 discount. That brought the cost down to $400.
Since we now have ten wheel to have done, I asked if they would give an additional discount. They offered another $25 on each wheel, bringing the cost to $375 per wheel plus shipping to and from Koch's
I hope this clarifies the details,
Loren
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Thanks Loren, all is clear.
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Hi Loren. Just to keep you updated. I'm sending in 2 cores. Since my Red GS project needs the wheel done to and we are getting the discount.
Thank You for doing this for us.
Tony
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Hi Loren. Just to keep you updated. I'm sending in 2 cores. Since my Red GS project needs the wheel done to and we are getting the discount.
Thank You for doing this for us.
Tony
Tony ,
Probably a good idea to get them both done.
You are welcome,
Loren
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For anyone that is interested in taking advantage of the group purchase, Your steering wheel core must be shipped by April 6, 2018.
In order for this to work with Koch's, they wanted them all at the same time.
Loren
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Hi Loren,
Got the email. Are they set up to do any paint color match or something from the original? Probably a stupid question but in the line for "Finished Color" can I just say "the same as the original"? I really just want it to match the original, I assume like everyone else, and don't want to just say Red, Blue or whatever.
Dwaine
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Hello Duane, When I had mine done they called me to find out what color I wanted the wheel because the wheel was faded and in bad shape. My car is Astro Poly Blue so I told them that was the color I wanted. The wheel was painted but the plastic they used was also a light blue. I had to grind a bunch of material out to get the horn button assemble to fit correctly. The color match was just a very slight bit different but my wife didn't even notice it. I'm thinking it the difference between paint and colored polished plastic. I'm happy with the results and the only other option was $1300.00.
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Hi Loren,
Got the email. Are they set up to do any paint color match or something from the original? Probably a stupid question but in the line for "Finished Color" can I just say "the same as the original"? I really just want it to match the original, I assume like everyone else, and don't want to just say Red, Blue or whatever.
Dwaine
Dwaine,
Koch's said they can paint to match any color, including a custom color. I the to assume anything, it can get me into a lot of problems. I will call on Monday and ask about matching to original color.
Loren
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I am sending in a piece of vinyl from an old convertible boot that is near the correct color for my weird fishy-skin-blue-with-a-little-green-but-not aqua-and-not-turquoise-but-not-really-a-true-blue-darned-color-someone-picked-and-scribbled-on-a-bar-napkin-during-a-layover-in-an-airport-lounge-after-a-convention-color.
Or, they can finish it in the Astro Poly Blue like McNew's wheel.
Whatever is easier, since I am not looking for concourse purity or $1500 worth of hand holding perfection. :tongue3:
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Sounds like you will be testing their Custom color abilities.
Loren
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For anyone that is interested in taking advantage of the group purchase, Your steering wheel core must be shipped by April 6, 2018.
In order for this to work with Koch's, they wanted them all at the same time.
Loren
Shipped mine today - will arrive Wednesday. 1 black wheel, 1 ready to paint wheel. I assume with the vast 1960s GM wheels they have listed, they have the correct black.
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Mine is in the mail.
Postal clerk asked if anything dangerous in the box. I said, "Nope, unless it's attached to the car!" :laughing7:
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My two are all packed up and ready to go out USPS tomorrow afternoon. If I send it out Priority Mail, it should get to the Left coast by next Tuesday...
Tony
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Koch’s called today - everything arrived safely and confirmed that they will use Loren’s horn bar for fitment purposes.
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Loren,
What's the shipping address to Koch's? Their website lists a PO box.
Thanks!
Mark
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The shipping address is on the form that you need to down load and fill out. I had sent an email to all those that had expressed interest.
I will resend the email Mark.
Loren
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Ok, sorry Loren.
Thanks!
Mark
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Ok, sorry Loren.
Thanks!
Mark
Hey Mark , No problem buddy.
I sent the email, let me know if you got it , please.
I decided to do it this way to keep the wheels together as much as possible for Koch's and I'm on a limited time frame. Also the form should help Koch's with determining the wheels in the group price.
Loren
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Loren,
Got it - thank you!
Mark
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Loren,
Got it - thank you!
Mark
Terrific ! Thanks for letting me know.
Loren
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I reached out to Kochs to confirm they got my wheel this afternoon. All is well and the nice young lady confirmed the 12 week lead time. She also said I was "good to go for the $350 deal". Soooooo, it should be somewhere between $350 and $450. :icon_thumright: I am okay either way.
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We are at 14 steering wheels being done. If there is anyone else interested in getting one done, you have till Friday April 6, 2018. Then this will be closed.
If you need a core , I have a few here that are available.
Loren
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Wheel sent via USPS.
THanks again Loren!
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Thanks Steve for letting me know it is on the way.
I just got off the phone with Koch's. The wheels will be done in the order that Koch's receives them. We are looking at 12 week turn around from when the wheel arrives at Koch's.
Koch's will call you when they receive the wheel. Payment is directly to Koch's when the wheel is done. They accept credit card, PayPal and personal check. Personal check will delay the shipping of your wheel till check has cleared the bank.
Loren
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I would be willing to send Koch's a horn bar so that they can double check the fit.
Loren
Loren:
Just reconfirming that you have a horn bar headed to Koch for fitment purposes. Thank you!
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I would be willing to send Koch's a horn bar so that they can double check the fit.
Loren
Loren:
Just reconfirming that you have a horn bar headed to Koch for fitment purposes. Thank you!
Yes, I have it packed in the box with a steering wheel.
Loren
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Just got home from FedEx. Steering wheel cores and the horn bar are on the way.
Loren
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If anyone needs an interior paint code, please let me know.
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Koch?s called today to confirm my order and color, said it will be done in about 12 weeks. They mentioned using Loren?s horn bar for fitting.
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Dan, I am trying to sort out for them trim code191, on my 66 GS, I think it is Astro Blue Poly, can you confirm. They are asking for a paint sample of the paint I used on the interior trim, thanks Bill.
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Couple of horn bars for 64-65 on the V8Buick site.
http://www.v8buick.com/index.php?threads/1964-1965-skylark-horn-bars.332498/ (http://www.v8buick.com/index.php?threads/1964-1965-skylark-horn-bars.332498/)
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Dan, I am trying to sort out for them trim code191, on my 66 GS, I think it is Astro Blue Poly, can you confirm. They are asking for a paint sample of the paint I used on the interior trim, thanks Bill.
Hi Bill -
I will check my interior paint information today. Sorry for the delay. I think the interior colors weren't named as fancy as the exterior colors - I believe it is just simply "medium blue." I will report back soon. Thanks.
Dan
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Thanks.
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Dan, I am trying to sort out for them trim code191, on my 66 GS, I think it is Astro Blue Poly, can you confirm. They are asking for a paint sample of the paint I used on the interior trim, thanks Bill.
Correct. Paint for the blue interior is the same as used for Astro Blue, code 'D' on the exterior.
I haven't seen the original steering wheel on my blue 66 for at least 36 years (holy smokes!).... I don't think it had the same metallic blue as the interior but was just solid blue molded plastic.
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For 1965 the color visually close to the exterior color Astro Blue is called Medium Blue, which is DuPont code 4630 and PPG Ditzler 13006. The 1965 assembly manual also lists the color name as Medium Blue, code 3301. Any good paint shop should be able to cross reference the formula to today’s paints. Hope this helps.
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www.PaintRef.com (http://www.PaintRef.com) holds the answers
Here's the details on Astro Blue/Medium Blue:
http://paintref.com/cgi-bin/paintdetail.cgi?gmcode=WA3301 (http://paintref.com/cgi-bin/paintdetail.cgi?gmcode=WA3301)
Koch's should be able to obtain everything they need from the above link.
Thanks Bill & Walt!
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Thanks for the reply, that will help.
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So, they will restore a single wheel at the cost of $450? plus providing a core.
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Yes, $450 is the regular price to recast and paint a steering wheel . You also must supply a core and pay shipping both ways.
Keep in mind, this is more then a restoration. Koch's removes all of the original plastic from the core . Then recasts new plastic onto the original steel frame. The plastic used is a poly-urethane UV resistant plastic. Then the steering wheel is painted to the customer's color choice.
They had an issue with fitment for the horn bar on a previous job. That should be resolved now since I sent them a horn bar to check for fit.
Loren
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Koch?s called today to confirm my order and color, said it will be done in about 12 weeks. They mentioned using Loren?s horn bar for fitting.
According to the reminder on my calendar, the steering wheels should be done soon?
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are there going to be any extra's in the first run? I need one but obviously missed the boat
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The wheels are probably going to production now, you might still be able to get in if you contact them.
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the car is still on the other side of the country..literally
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There are not extra wheels made. This required a core to be sent in and a minimum number of orders submitted.
Loren
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Got a call from Koch's today. My wheels are shipping today, and they should arrive this Wednesday!
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Also, for those of you with missing horn springs, here's link to some info on Horn Springs:
http://65gs.com/board/index.php/topic,4006.msg28584.html#msg28584 (http://65gs.com/board/index.php/topic,4006.msg28584.html#msg28584)
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Got a call from Koch's today. My wheels are shipping today, and they should arrive this Wednesday!
Happy to hear that Koch's is starting to get the wheels out.
Thanks for the update Dan,
Loren
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Got a call from Koch's today. My wheels are shipping today, and they should arrive this Wednesday!
Pics or it didn't happen! :thumbsup:
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So my wheels arrived last Wednesday as promised.
The quality is AWESOME. I had 2 wheels done (one in primer and one in black). I sent them two completely junk cores, and I got 2 excellent brand new wheels back. HOWEVER, the clear coat on the black wheel reacted with the bubble wrap, and I had to send it back. Koch's was very polite and even sent UPS to my house to pick it up - they said "we will absolutely make it right."
THANK YOU again to Loren for another successful group purchase! What's next?! :)
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Dear Dan and mid-60s Buick owners who have cameras and aren't afraid to use them! (http://www.canebas.org/WeatherCat/Forum_support_documents/Custom_emoticons/camera_small.gif)
The quality is AWESOME. I had 2 wheels done (one in primer and one in black). I sent them two completely junk cores, and I got 2 excellent brand new wheels back.
. . . .
Your words are very descriptive but the pictures are even clearer! Thanks for sharing them!
Cheers, Edouard :occasion14:
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Koch?s called today. Wheel is done and shipping out.
Mark
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So my wheels arrived last Wednesday as promised.
The quality is AWESOME. I had 2 wheels done (one in primer and one in black). I sent them two completely junk cores, and I got 2 excellent brand new wheels back. HOWEVER, the clear coat on the black wheel reacted with the bubble wrap, and I had to send it back. Koch's was very polite and even sent UPS to my house to pick it up - they said "we will absolutely make it right."
THANK YOU again to Loren for another successful group purchase! What's next?! :)
So relieved that this project is going well and much closer to on the projected time line.
I'm certain we can find another project to work on in the future. Together , we have accomplished a few already.
Thank you to everyone that has helped to make all these come to fruition.
Loren
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So my wheels arrived last Wednesday as promised.
The quality is AWESOME. I had 2 wheels done (one in primer and one in black). I sent them two completely junk cores, and I got 2 excellent brand new wheels back. HOWEVER, the clear coat on the black wheel reacted with the bubble wrap, and I had to send it back. Koch's was very polite and even sent UPS to my house to pick it up - they said "we will absolutely make it right."
THANK YOU again to Loren for another successful group purchase! What's next?! :)
Nice! Too bad about the bubble wrap. They might need to let them sit a little longer before packaging them.
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HOWEVER, the clear coat on the black wheel reacted with the bubble wrap, and I had to send it back. Koch's was very polite and even sent UPS to my house to pick it up - they said "we will absolutely make it right."
Koch's called me today. Looking like all the black wheel needed to be corrected was a nice professional polish. The Las Vegas heat must've done a number on the bubble wrap/trash bag that it was shipped in. Very happy, and the wheel is coming back home soon.
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So my wheels arrived last Wednesday as promised.
The quality is AWESOME. I had 2 wheels done (one in primer and one in black). I sent them two completely junk cores, and I got 2 excellent brand new wheels back. HOWEVER, the clear coat on the black wheel reacted with the bubble wrap, and I had to send it back. Koch's was very polite and even sent UPS to my house to pick it up - they said "we will absolutely make it right."
THANK YOU again to Loren for another successful group purchase! What's next?! :)
So relieved that this project is going well and much closer to on the projected time line.
I'm certain we can find another project to work on in the future. Together , we have accomplished a few already.
Thank you to everyone that has helped to make all these come to fruition.
Loren
We have quite the little community here Loren! :cheers2:
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Even without seeing mine, I want to thank Loren for putting the effort into this. It takes considerable time to spin it up and follow through, as well as providing timely and most relevant information.
The wheels I have seen in pictures look fantastic, and are anywhere from 1/2 to 1/3 the cost of anyone else's comparable process.
And a couple of those were limited to black.
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HOWEVER, the clear coat on the black wheel reacted with the bubble wrap, and I had to send it back. Koch's was very polite and even sent UPS to my house to pick it up - they said "we will absolutely make it right."
Koch's called me today. Looking like all the black wheel needed to be corrected was a nice professional polish. The Las Vegas heat must've done a number on the bubble wrap/trash bag that it was shipped in. Very happy, and the wheel is coming back home soon.
Re-polished black wheel arrived today (wrapped in paper, not plastic). This thing is SWEET
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We have quite the little community here Loren! :cheers2:
x2!! :hello2:
Cheers, Edouard :occasion14:
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Looks awesome! In a way I wish I had joined in, but --- too MANY projects!!
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Koch's (Barbra) called me this afternoon to say that both of my red wheels were ready and they were going out UPS today. :thumbsup:
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Dear Iain and mid-60s Buick owners with too much to do . . . . .
Looks awesome! In a way I wish I had joined in, but --- too MANY projects!!
You'd better not let that stop you in the future! This is the sort of thing that happens very rarely and let's face it - these days . . . who doesn't have too many projects!?!?!? (http://www.canebas.org/WeatherCat/Forum_support_documents/Custom_emoticons/juggle.gif)
Cheers, Edouard :occasion14:
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Are they just sort of dribbling out? I haven't heard anything on mine....
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I imagine this type of work is linear in nature. And such shops/operations have only a few fine crasftsmen.
But, yes. "dribbling" is most likely the business model. :tongue3:
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Next week will be week 20 for me. Thinking about calling for an update.
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Kochs rung me back. High temps and some paint match issues are delaying things. It is anticipated that mine will go out next week assuming the new paint color meets their standards. I sent mine in April 3rd, so you can probably derive your particular delivery date based on that.
Super nice folks, weren't put out at all by my inquiry. I like dealing with folks like that. Makes me want to find another wheel for them to do.... :thumbsup:
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My Two Red wheels came in yesterday and they look great, now just to find some time to install one on the convertible ! :confused4:
Tony
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Kochs rung me back. High temps and some paint match issues are delaying things. It is anticipated that mine will go out next week assuming the new paint color meets their standards. I sent mine in April 3rd, so you can probably derive your particular delivery date based on that.
Super nice folks, weren't put out at all by my inquiry. I like dealing with folks like that. Makes me want to find another wheel for them to do.... :thumbsup:
I am happy that you are finding Kochs good to deal with. That is one of the reasons I felt they would be a good company to go with. When I started the research to find a company to work with, they were very friendly and willing to answer any questions .
There are some things that can't be controlled or mishaps occur. Kochs has given prompt attention to details as they have risen.
Loren
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WOW.. I've been away from this site for about 10 months refurbishing and selling Tampa Bay homes.. and this is what happens???
Sheeeesh. I have an original GREY 65 GS wheel, (white interior) and I would love to get in on this deal but seems I'm about 5 months too late... :angry5: :BangHead: :angryfire: :crybaby2: :violent1: :crybaby2: :crybaby2: aaaarrrgh.
Wheelz, Tampa Bay
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You should call them, Dennis.
They might still be in this run, unless they poured them all in a batch, and are just doing the paint and finish.
Get any you have refinished.
It's not like they are Bitcoins. I bet you could sell everyone.
Some folks likely could not do without a wheel for the time it takes to send it in.
These are about 1/3 the cost of comparable restores from the core.
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SO...I just read 120 posts relating to this as Im stuffing a steak taco bell Quesadilla down my foodpipe. . . . Only ONE - LORENs post #67 mentions a LINK to a form I need to fill out?
However, methinx before I do that, SOMEONE here, is it you Loren? has a contact name and/or number at Kochs so I can call to discuss if Im too late or not... :dontknow:
I would appreciate any help/advise on this!!
Thanks Guys!
Wheelz, Tampa Bay
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Hey Dennis
I pulled out my receipt for the 2 wheels that I had restored, It's Koch's in Acton, CA. phone 661-268-1341 The woman that i spoke to was Barbra and she was great to deal with VERY professional. Give her a call.
:thumbsup: Tony
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Hi Dennis,
I don't know if Koch's will still do the agreement that was worked out with them or not. The person I have been dealing with at Koch's is Tereasa. Their hours are 7:30 am to 4:00 pm. Probably don't need to tell you that there is a 3 hour time difference for you and the west coast.
Loren
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:thumbsup: :occasion14:
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Has anyone else received a wheel lately? Its been a month since they were planning to ship mine, but no dice. They must be getting increasingly busy, or losing staff as getting an update is proving to be tougher.
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I spoke with Koch's today. Teresa will be getting back to me , hopefully today. They had some issues arise with paint and are hand fitting each wheel with the horn bar that I supplied them. Quality seems to be a top priority for Koch's.
On another note, Koch's can not extend the original pricing. They will offer a $ 50 discount from the normal pricing though.
Also the costs will be going up $100 at the New year. If my math is correct, it will then be $ 550 each , plus shipping.
So if you want to take advantage of the current $ 50 savings, best do it quickly.
Loren
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Koch?s called me today and said my wheel is shipping out today and should be here next week!
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I spoke with Koch's today. Teresa will be getting back to me , hopefully today. They had some issues arise with paint and are hand fitting each wheel with the horn bar that I supplied them. Quality seems to be a top priority for Koch's.
On another note, Koch's can not extend the original pricing. They will offer a $ 50 discount from the normal pricing though.
Also the costs will be going up $100 at the New year. If my math is correct, it will then be $ 550 each , plus shipping.
So if you want to take advantage of the current $ 50 savings, best do it quickly.
Loren
As promised, Koch's emailed a list of the last six customers and projected finish time. I am last on the list and should have mine done in two weeks. So figuring shipping time will add another week, I will have mine in about three weeks.
Thank you all for your patience ,
Loren
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:glasses9:
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Mine came a few days ago. It looks very solid but somehow the bubble wrap imprinted on it. Which is odd since it was wrapped in a black plastic bag which was then wrapped in bubble wrap. I am going to try a few things to see if i can buff it off before I contact them as it sounds like they are pretty busy.
Rob
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The bubble wrap issue came up earlier as well. I offered to have them leave mine sit there awhile before shipping so that doesn't occur. They were not interested in taking me up on that, so fingers crossed. Sounds like my wheel made it all the way through the painting process before a crack appeared. Hoping that is a fluke.
Should have mine next week if all holds true.
If you do find the secret sauce for the bubble wrap problem, i'd love to hear what it was.
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Guys, I talked to Teresa and Kochs. She told me to get my wheel in the mail right away and they will honor the price ya'll paid!! :occasion14: SO, Im sending my wheel off tomorrow.
THANK YOU ALL and especially Loren for bring'n this to light!!! :cheers2:
Wheelz, Tampa Bay
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Wheelz,
Hey that is great ! Glad Koch's let you in on the pricing.
Loren
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Anybody have a quality image of a Grey wheel for a white interior car? The kind of drab battle ship grey color. Kochs isn't happy with the color of my finished wheel and didn't save any material for comparison. I had one on my phone which died. Hoping to avoid just winging the color which is where we are going to be shortly.
Thanks all.
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(http://wwwcdn.oldcarsweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/1965-GS-3.jpg)
And here is a link to a '65 Skylark with white interior and grey wheel.
https://www.dragers.com/vehicles/111/1965-buick-skylark (https://www.dragers.com/vehicles/111/1965-buick-skylark)
Hope that helps. :)
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I saw that wheel online, but it appears to have flake in it. I suspect it is not the right color.
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Dan Ankeny's car.
Dan, I hope it was ok to post this. A good pic.
Mark
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Mark, the color on the wheel in the picture was incorrect. Chuck Miller came up with the correct color and I had it redone.
Dan
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Whoops, sorry about that! Looks pretty close to the image Michael posted earlier.
Mark
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No problem. Somewhere I have a picture of campfamily’s original gray wheel. Can’t find it now but it is very close to this color.
Dan
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Mark, the color on the wheel in the picture was incorrect. Chuck Miller came up with the correct color and I had it redone.
Dan
Perfect. thank you sir.
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My wheel arrived today and looks great. Thanks again Loren!
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Theresa called today, my wheel is on the way home! :hello2:
I'll post pics when I get it back.
(If it shows up while I'm at the Grand Nats, it's will be after that...)
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Both of mine arrived a few days ago, both look nice. I will try to get some pictures in a few days and post, thanks Bill.
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Just got off phone with Theresa, who is very nice; my wheel due home on 10/23.
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I got mine. It's very nice. They seemed concerned about the color, but i am very pleased.
Thanks for everything Loren.
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I received mine yesterday. It looks fantastic ! I am very pleased with the finished product and the excellent customer service from Koch's.
With the delivery of mine being the last one, we have completed another project. My thanks to all that participated and made this a success.
I appreciate the many thanks from everyone . Were it not for the great folks here at 65GS.com , none of these projects would have come to fruition.
Loren
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Hey guys,
I know Loren provided a horn bar for test-fitting, but has anybody still encountered any difficulties mounting horn bars? Mine doesn't fit well, and the screws will not engage in any of the four holes. Also, it appears that the horn bar unit is slightly more angled that the wheel, ie there's more space between the horn bar ends and the wheel than in the center. Any insights?
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I did not get time to try mine before the car went in to storage for the winter.
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Hey guys,
I know Loren provided a horn bar for test-fitting, but has anybody still encountered any difficulties mounting horn bars? Mine doesn't fit well, and the screws will not engage in any of the four holes. Also, it appears that the horn bar unit is slightly more angled that the wheel, ie there's more space between the horn bar ends and the wheel than in the center. Any insights?
I took a look at my redone wheel. I see why the horn bar is sitting up from where it should. The area where the screws come through has plastic left on it. That area did not have plastic on the original casting. It is bare metal. This will also cause an issue with the function of the horn since it needs bare metal to complete the grounding circuit. I've attached pictures of my wheel from Koch's and an original.
I have discussed this with Koch's this morning. I am going to see if it is possible to remedy the issue without having to send the wheel back to Koch's. This will require removing the plastic from the area where the horn bar mounting screws pass through.
It may take a couple of days, so hang tight.
Loren
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I pulled my "temp" wheel last night, and will be putting my restored wheel on this evening.
I'll post back in results. :)
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I have tried on my own to remedy the horn bar issue with my wheel. I am not able to fix the issue , so the wheel is going back to Koch's.
That said, check the horn bar fit. If it is not correct, contact Koch's.
Loren
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Same with mine. (and the "patterned/imprinted" defects)
I'll be contacting them next week and sending it in with my "driver" horn bar.
(I have a very nice one and one that doubles as a cheese grater.)
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Hello Guys! Well, I finally sold my 65 GS. :crybaby2: Of course, the same week, Teresa from Kochs called and my wheel was done! I contacted the new buyer and told him I would thro in the new steering wheel. Stupid me. So, the wheel arrived and IT IS GORGEOUS! SUPERB!
Now, only IF the interior was light gray it would be perfect.. My white interior has a charcoal grey dash board, pad, I steering wheel. This light grey steering wheel is just not going to cut it.
QUESTION IS..... Teresa said today, I was the only DARK GREY wheel they had restored for this 65GS.com group.... and they have NO IDEA what color the dark grey should be. The car is gone. Kochs stripped the original wheel, thus busted off all the original plastic and they no longer have any pieces to color match.
WHO out here in 65 GS Land, would know of have the correct color code?? or NAME of the color???
Wheelz, Tampa Bay
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I have not yet sent mine back but for those with horn bar issues did you get the wheel back corrected?
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Hey Dennis,
My wheel is painted. Description on the can is GM Dark Charcoal Metallic. Best I can do....
:cheers2:
Chuck
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Thank You Chuck!!! I will report your findings to Teresa at Koch's and see what she can do! :thumbsup:
Wheelz, Tampa Bay
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I have not yet sent mine back but for those with horn bar issues did you get the wheel back corrected?
I sent mine back with a horn bar. Koch’s corrected the issue and it should be good to go now. They will issue a UPS pick up and cover shipping both ways.
Loren
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I also sent mine back with the horn bar a few weeks ago.
Teresa called and let me know it arrived.
I will post when I get it back.
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Sent both of mine back today, worked on them for a few hours but could not get the horn bars to fit with original screws.
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Are you guys sending a horn bar along with the wheel?
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Yes, they requested you send the horn bar, and I sent them with the correct screws.
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Teresa called and they received my wheel and I should have it back soon. I could only find two of the screws for the horn bar. Anyone have any extras or know where to get some?
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Got my wheel back a few weeks ago, it looks great! Thanks again Loren for putting this all together.
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FWIW! My 65 wheel came back almost Dove grey in April. Teresa was an absolutely SUPERB Customer Service Rep! She took it back, (paid for shipping) REPAINTED it the color Chuck suggested (GM Dark Charcoal Metallic) THANK YOU Chuck! last week it came back to me awesomely PERFECT!!!
UNfortunate timing. . . I sold the car a few months ago to a local feller who didn't want to pay $425, so I posted it for sale and sold it right away!
KOCHS is a GREAT COMPANY, and Teresa deserves one huge ATTA GIRL!!! :rocker: :headbang: :occasion14: :hello2:
Thank You Loren for putting this creation together!
Wheelz, Tampa Bay
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You all are welcome, but the thanks really goes to you all for coming on board to make it happen. The only way, I think, that it could have gone better would have been to have had one done and checked it for fit. Color is another issue on it’s own.
Loren
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Drove my car that has the Franks wheel in it and it is not as nice as the ones we got from Kochs. We really got great quality wheels on this deal!
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Hey Guys,
I concur that Koch's, and especially Theresa, are A++ in their workmanship and customer service. Especially Theresa.
That said, my wheel came back too bright a shade of red (pic one). So it went back with one of my armrests for color matching, and came back just yesterday, absolutely beautiful (pics two, three) and seeming right on, albeit not in the car yet to know for sure. But on the second painting, it has a fine metallic, which it didn't have the first time around. Did any of you guys with red wheels get this? I don't think it's factory, but it's surenice looking. Don't think I'm sending it back again.
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I like how yours looks Steve, very nice. I have a car with a blue wheel and I am not sure they ever perfectly matched. Same with my 71 Challenger with blue interior. The colored interiors can be tough.
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Mine came back with the bar fitting issue, and I sent it back.
I also sent my ashtray door so they could match the shade of blue I have, and it came back perfect.
I'll be swapping out the 1963 wheel I have been using one of the two cold and dreary days we have to suffer with in Florida.
Only two days, so I'll need to be on the ball...
I have nothing but good to say for Koch's and Teresa is a gem!
And very happy to have been able to get in on this.
The best I could find anywhere else that did a recasting was about $1500, and that was a couple of years back.
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Hey ya’all
I’m needing to get my wheel done for my 65, have a core ready to go thanks to Wheelz! Thanks Dennis!
Any interest or recent orders for steering wheel restoration from Koch’s? I’m good to go. What’s their prices this year?
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There is a guy on V8buick.com with a '66 Skylark, "Nick 66 Skylark" looking to get his recast, and I mentioned Koch's to him.
( I think the wheels are the same, just a different style horn bar)
If you are not a member, message me with your contact info, and I will message him with it and your interest.
Might help pricing, if a few are getting wheels done at the same time.
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Still people out there looking for steering wheels. I wonder if Koch?s would do another small group buy.
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I'm in ...
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I'll need a wheel rebuild as well.
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I spoke with Theresa recently . Sounds like they are $550 now . 15 + wheels $450 . Either way beats the $1700 guy ...
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One maybe Two for me! Would be a great deal for group!
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I see there are a few interested in another group purchase. I don't have the necessary time to stay on top of it. If someone wants to take the lead, that would be great.
"64-'66 used the same wheel. In '64 it was an upgrade and also could be upgraded to on a '65 Special. The horn bar for '64 & '65 are the same part. In '66 the horn bar had the black raised inserts for the horn.
If someone needs a core, I have a few to get out of my way for the cost of shipping.
Loren
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What would I need to do? I can stay on top of it, Can we create a new stickie?
Regards,
Ted
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I am in for one if this gets going Ted.
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What are we thinking the turn around time is?
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Hey all , what's the status on this group purchase of steering wheels ?
I'll be in for one also if this gets going .
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Brickwhite sold his car so maybe not heading this up anymore. I?m still interested too.