Hi All,

Just wanted to test the thoughts and experience of the forum on the pros and cons of fitting a removable steering wheel boss. I've got a sierra based column. I like the idea and would be great to allow access into the driver footwell etc , but can't help thinking are they safe ? Do they ever fail ?

Thanks

All

At least one forum member had his removable steering wheel come adrift while driving at speed down a main road - it didn't end well although he walked away from the accident, which is the main thing.



[Edited on 10/5/20 by David Jenkins]

Swings and roundabouts.

Makes access in/out easier and to the footwell if you need it

Security is improved as it's harder to steal a car with no wheel but easy to steal the wheel should you not want to wander around with the wheel in your hand at your destination.

Difficulty in aligning the wheel when refitting can be a slight pain in some designs. Being sure it's locked on can be a concern. I think the crash mentioned above was a combo of the wheel coming off because it hadn't locked and being unable to realign before hitting the barriers. Play in the boss is an issue on many designs. The only boss I've come across that doesn't suffer any of these issues is this design...

http://www.plays-kool.co.uk/acatalog/Rapfix-Racing-212.html#SID=58

Simply goes on then spin and it auto-locates/locks in the right alignment and it has no play at all.

Another thing to consider is do you trust your ability to weld on the slug to to column. If not get it done professionally.

[Edited on 10/5/20 by adithorp]

I've got one on my car - I think it's made by Spa.

It's been on the car since a few months after the SVA test. I fitted it for security and to make getting in/out a bit easier.

I spent a LOT of time setting up the slug/steering column before I started welding!

I carry the wheel with me whenever I'm away from the car. It's easy enough to fit (you do have to align the master spline) and it provides a level of security for an open car. There's no play in the splines and the car has covered over 10,000 miles since I built it.

I am very careful to check it's fully 'on' and that the locking mechanism has fully engaged. It also needs a little clean and lubrication occasionally.

I've had a Snap-Off on my car for a few years. Works well for security. Ease of access to under dash and pedals is better. Doesn't make much difference getting in and out.

Mine is the type that locks with a key and it seems pretty secure. There's no play when it is one.

There was no welding involved to fit mine. It was just like fitting a normal boss except it is in two parts.

[Edited on 11/5/20 by SJ]

Thanks all, feedback appreciated

My only issues with mine has been due to my habit of fiddling with the release catch when at traffic lights! I've occasionally actually managed to pull the wheel off (usually just before the light changing) requiring a rapid re-attachment! But I can't really blame the manafacturer for me being a fidget fingers!

reminds me of when I crashed my just restored classic beetle through the garden fence the first time I tried to drive it and then found out I'd forgotten to even put the bolt on... or the seat latch

[Edited on 11/5/20 by Mr Whippy]

I'm glad time heals. This subject used to always have my name crop up!

I was that person who had a QR wheel come off at 70mph, it didn't end well for the car!