US Patent:
20040100143, May 27, 2004
Inventors:
Lee Dahmer - Round Hill VA, US
International Classification:
B60B023/00
Abstract:
A quick release steering wheel system and method involves use of a billet hub adapter that has tapped holes for attachment of an OEM steering wheel that uses a non-standard bolt-pattern. The billet hub adapter includes an upper recess to provide space for the center cap of the OEM steering wheel and a lower recess for use of a commonly available, preferably pinless, quick release mechanism that is attached to the billet hub adapter via counter-sunk through-holes in the adapter. The adapter can be used to prevent theft of exotic automobiles as well as their exotic steering wheels. It can also be used to adapt the automobiles for use in racing environments that require quick release steering wheels for safety reasons, yet maintain a visually pleasing appearance when the OEM wheel is attached.