Removable Steering Wheel

On our visits to Westfield we usually look at the notice board in the parts dept.  During our visit to collect the components for module 5 we saw a technical bulletin from Chris Masters about SVA and steering wheels.  When we purchased our starter kit we specified the removable steering wheel. Not merely as posing accessory but as a security device. Let’s face it you can’t go very far without a steering wheel. 

When collecting our kit in Jan ’99, SVA was in it’s infancy and shrouded mystery and myth. However we recognised that the removable steering wheel was not SVA compliant. The advice at the time was that with the addition of some deformable padding it could be made SVA compliant.  Racetech makes the steering wheel and we had begun making enquiries of Racetech for a suitable padded boss.  The technical bulletin dispelled this myth.  It seems that to be SVA compliant the Westfield Steering wheel must be used with an Astrali boss, which is designed to deform in the event of an accident. The steering column is not sleeved or designed to deform but does conform to all current EU regulations. 

To be SVA compliant, we will need to beg, borrow or buy a Westfield Steering wheel, and boss, We will need to change the inner upper steering column shaft since the splined fitting on our shaft is incompatible with the Astrali boss. 

Solution

Westfield Standard Steering Wheel

We had agreed in principle, with Westfield, the loan of a steering wheel for the SVA test. We waited until about a week before the test then collected a steering wheel and inner column .  Replacement was a fairly simple operation.   Unlock the steering wheel lock and ensure the wheel is free to rotate. Undo the upper joint by removing the cotter bolt.  Whilst someone supports the lower steering column withdraw the steering wheel and shaft from the column.  Refitting is a reverse of the removal operation.  Insert the steering wheel shaft in to the upper column. Take care not to get grease on to the upholstery or dashboard.  Get someone to guide the shaft in to the splines of the upper joint. Refit the cotter bolt.  Make sure the steering wheel is central and the steering lock engages. Adjust as required.  Tighten the cotter bolt ot recommended torque setting.  Westfield make a refundable cxharge of £25.00 fro this service.