1894 hunter 31 wheel

Feb 22, 2004
222
Hunter H340 Michigan City
1984 hunter 31 wheel

Can anyone tell me the diameter of the wheel on a 1984 H31?
Thank you
 
Last edited:
May 24, 2004
7,179
CC 30 South Florida
I think they had wooden wheels back then. Just an Orwellian comment. Wheel size may have varied from model to model as some owners may have preferred a smaller wheel to make it easier to get around in the cockpit while others may have gone for a larger wheel for racing or being able to steer while seating on the sides. The correct size would likely depend on your preference; too large a wheel might require you to stand while a too small one may feel too heavy. Just sit at the helm and imagine a wheel and stretch your arms into a comfortable steering position and then have someone take a quick measurement from the wheel hub to one of your hands. Once you have the approximate wheel radius then take a stick or a line and run it around to see how the wheel rim would fit; at the top make sure it would not obstruct your line of sight, at the sides see how it would feel to walk around it and at the bottom check out clearance for the legs (I like to steer with my feet sometimes and like the wheel rim just high enough to be able to rest my foot on it). Anything larger than 28" in diameter should provide enough leverage for steering while you may go as large as the clearance to the cockpit sole and coamings may allow. Some like the looks of larger wheels but remember that you may be seating behind it for long hours so choose something that looks good but is also comfortable. Take also in to consideration any future plans you may have to install or to replace a helm chair.
 
Sep 4, 2007
776
Hunter 33.5 Elbow, Saskatchwen, Can.
Keith
If I remember correctly my 31 had a 40 inch SS wheel. Same as my 34.
 
Feb 22, 2004
222
Hunter H340 Michigan City
Dan
Thanks I know it is not 40 I can't remember if it is 32 or 36 I think 36 I was going to order a folding wheel but I guess I will wait and measure it when I can get to the boat. It is shrink wrapped now.
Keith
 
Aug 11, 2011
988
O'day 30 313 Georgetown MD
Love the title of this thread. "1894 hunter 31 wheel". Did not know they built Hunters in Fiberglass back then!
:D
 
Feb 22, 2004
222
Hunter H340 Michigan City
Oh crap I didn't even notice that I screwed up the date that's funny I have a very very rare boat indeed. OK it is a 1984 so who knows the answer anyway I guess I will have to measure it
 
Feb 22, 2004
222
Hunter H340 Michigan City
Thanks, yes 36 is the size I ordered a Lewmar folding wheel I can't wait to try it out.
 
Jan 7, 2004
43
Hunter 31 Kingsville, Ontario, Canada
I have a 42" wheel (not stock) and I love it! I would go to a 48" if I could find one for a reasonable price!

I can sit on the high side (along with my crew) when beating to weather and still have the wheel close to hand...I think the stock wheel was a 32"...

I would love a folding wheel though - nice touch and report back on how well it works out! :)

Mike