Renovation of the Kenworth W900 steering wheel button panel – a unique project for classic car enthusiasts.

In our workshop, which specialises in the comprehensive renovation of leather and plastic components, we undertook an exceptionally demanding task – the renovation of the steering wheel button controller of the legendary Kenworth W900. This classic truck model, now considered an old-timer, has many components that cannot be purchased in their original form – including the button panel located centrally on the steering wheel.

The task was unique in terms of both technology and aesthetics. The challenges our team faced included both material issues and the high precision required to recreate the graphic elements.

Renovation of the Kenworth W900 steering wheel button panel

Key challenges and technologies used

Recreating the two-colour Kenworth logo (white and red)

  • We used precise laser engraving techniques to reproduce even the smallest details. A special two-layer colour application system was used, which, combined with the appropriate laser engraving, produced a durable and aesthetic effect.
  • It was also important to calibrate the laser correctly to avoid melting the rubber surface.

Selection of paints for rubber surfaces

  • The original panel was made of flexible rubber, which is difficult to process. Many commercially available paints tended to crack after drying or when the component was in operation.
  • Thanks to cooperation with an expert in paint and elastomer coatings, it was possible to select a specialised paint that combines flexibility with high resistance to abrasion and UV rays.

Recreating icons and pictograms

  • The entire set of pictograms was graphically reconstructed from scratch, based on the badly damaged original. The process involved vectorisation, followed by testing the scaling and fitting of shapes to the existing button fields.
  • The vector files were implemented in laser engraving software, and the final print was tested several times on rubber samples before the final print was made.

Final result:

The attached photos show a huge difference – from a worn-out, illegible element, we managed to create an almost brand-new component, while maintaining full compatibility with the original. The panel regained its original appearance and was additionally protected against further degradation.

It is worth noting that no other company has decided to undertake such a difficult and multi-stage project. It is thanks to our experience, access to specialised tools and interdisciplinary cooperation between experts that it was possible to achieve this result.

Restored steering wheel button panel in Kenworth W900 after laser refurbishment

Project team and interdisciplinary approach

This complex task required the cooperation of several experts:

  • A classic car mechanic, who dismantled and assessed the technical condition of the panel,
  • A graphic designer specialising in vectorisation, responsible for recreating logos and icons,
  • An industrial paint specialist who selected the appropriate coating technology,
  • A painter who applied a protective layer,
  • A laser engraving expert who made the final markings on the panel.

Each stage was preceded by tests – both in terms of durability and detail reproduction. In this way, we achieved a result that not only restores the original appearance, but also significantly extends the life of the entire component.

If you own a classic vehicle and want its interior to regain its former glory, we are the only place to go.
Are you looking for a similar service?

Many customers find us by typing:

Kenworth button restoration
Restoring the interior of an old-timer truck
Laser engraving on rubber
Paint for rubber buttons
Recreating unavailable interior parts
How to restore buttons in an old truck?
Where to regenerate rubber buttons in a Kenworth W900?
Renovation of the interior of a Kenworth W900 – who does it?
Is it possible to recreate pictograms on a worn control panel?
How to renovate damaged rubber buttons?
Renovation of discontinued parts for old-timers – who does it?
Is it possible to recreate a logo on a rubber element?
Where to restore the steering wheel and buttons in a classic truck?
Which company does laser engraving on rubber?
Renovation of plastics and rubber in vintage vehicles – who to hire?
Regeneration of Kenworth truck interior elements
Custom detailing for classic trucks
Who recreates unavailable parts for American lorries?
How to restore the original appearance of the buttons on the steering wheel?
Paint for rubber interior parts – what works?

Contact us – we will rebuild what others have deemed irreparable.