Classic/Antique Car Repair: Wooden Spoke Wheels, spar varnish, spoke wheels

Question
I Have a 1923 Studebaker with Wooden Spoke wheels Can you advise on how to look after and care for the wheels to keep them in good condition what chemicals are best for cleaning and maintaining the health of the wood.

Answer
Most wood wheels were varnished at the factory when the car was built. They used a marine grade Spar varnish. The last wood wheeled car that we had go through the shop was a 28 Peerless and the wheels were in good condition but stained. We bleached the spokes (regular bleach) and then used a good Spar varnish them. When a wheel needed repairs we sent it off to the local carpenter.
Brad