I'm working on fixing the dreaded loose steering wheel problem, and I noticed in this write up http://www.fieros.eu/?page=...&window=popup&lng=en that the author explains that the notches in the plate are the lock, and the pin in "10:30 o'clock" position is what catches the notches. Would it be safe to either remove the pin or grind the notches out? I really hate steering wheel locks, and this seems like the optimal time to get rid of it.

Pull the pin.

okay, thanks!

Its just a theft deterrent. Its easily broken by a thief anyway. I see no reason you cant take it out. I dont like trans locks either myself. But not worth any extra effort for me to do away with them.

If you have a manual transmission vehicle you may not want to remove the steering wheel lock. In addition to it being a theft deterrent it also works as a safety measure. If you're parked on a hill, you usually turn your steering wheel into the curb so if you roll backwards the car will roll back into the curb. With the steering wheel lock it holds the wheel into place in case the car rolls backwards. Without the lock, and if you were to get into a situation where the car rolls down a hill, there is nothing stopping the wheels from potentially going wherever gravity and the shape of the land takes them.

The steering wheel lock also helps if you have to dolly or tow the car, with the front wheels on the ground.
It's not recommended to use *just* the lock, but it 's better than just "tying off" the steering wheel.

quote Originally posted by Fiero84Freak: If you have a manual transmission vehicle you may not want to remove the steering wheel lock. In addition to it being a theft deterrent it also works as a safety measure. If you're parked on a hill, you usually turn your steering wheel into the curb so if you roll backwards the car will roll back into the curb. With the steering wheel lock it holds the wheel into place in case the car rolls backwards. Without the lock, and if you were to get into a situation where the car rolls down a hill, there is nothing stopping the wheels from potentially going wherever gravity and the shape of the land takes them.

Yes... but Turn on a hill covers all trans.
Parking "lock" in auto trans is not design to take load parked on a hill.
If you parked the car wrong and car moves or hits anything or anyone then can get ticketed and/or sued.
If you remove/disable the steering lock, even worse for you trying to fight lawsuit/ticket.

quote Originally posted by Raydar: The steering wheel lock also helps if you have to dolly or tow the car, with the front wheels on the ground. It's not recommended to use *just* the lock, but it 's better than just "tying off" the steering wheel.

The lock is not made for towing etc. Most DIY "Tying the wheel" methods are dangerous too.

Even when Lock plate and pin are Steel. Pin lives in Pot Metal or Plastic steering column parts and easily get damage, or even destroy, the column by towing w/ front wheel down and column is locked.

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