finish wood spoked

[25-novice]

I would like a recommendation for a clear sand able sealer and a Spar marine varnish for wood spokes on my T, any expert advice would be appreciated

 

[David Martin]

I recommend staining the spokes any shade or color that pleases you first, followed by two coats of of clear high gloss exterior spar (oil base) varnish. Try to find some hickory material to make samples first. Stained spokes will maintain their appearance much longer than a clear finish.

 

[Steve Jelf]

Be aware that "natural" wood spokes are a modern fad. They're very common today because so many people like the look of them, but wheels came from the factory black, as God and Henry intended.

 

[Jack Innes]

Late in T production varnished wheels were offered as an option. The earlier wheels were all painted black.

Some makers did varnish their wheels earlier. I have a 1915 Maxwell that is described in the sales brochure as having " High quality varnished hickory wheels"

I have used the West System epoxy as a sealer on many wood wheels. It penetrates & strengthens the wood as well as gives a good surface to prep for paint or varnish. Warming the work & the liquid helps penetration.