Removing Steering Wheel Finish

[nicholsj@oakwood.org]

     In an effort to thwart those cheesey profiteers, I bought a 
     restoration special steering wheel.  The problem I am having is 
     removing the clear coat covering on the wood. It almost looks like 
     some type of plastic.  I tried a couple of paint/varnish removers 
     without success.  Anybody have an idea on what works?  The thought of 
     chipping the clear finish off does not make me happy.
     
     
     Jeff