Quick Release Steering Hubs Explained: Choosing The Right Setup For Your Race Car

Quick release steering hubs make getting in and out of a race car much easier. There are plenty of quick release steering hub options on the market today, each designed for different types of applications. We spoke with Eddie Mohr from IDIDIT to get some tips on how to choose the right quick release steering hub for your setup.

There are two main types of quick release steering hubs available.

The first is what many racers refer to as a “race-style” quick-release hub. These hubs feature a compact, lightweight design and are typically used with fabricated tube-style steering columns. They generally use a smaller pull ring to release the steering wheel and are designed with a minimalist approach focused on function and weight reduction.

The second type of quick release hub is designed to match an OEM-style steering column. These hubs are intended to work with factory steering columns or aftermarket columns that retain a stock appearance. OEM-style quick release hubs use a larger pull ring and cover exposed steering column components for a cleaner, factory-style look.

Which hub you choose ultimately depends on your application, but Mohr offered some important advice about selecting the correct setup for your vehicle.

“Not all quick release steering hubs are going to work with every aftermarket steering wheel,” Mohr explains. “You need to make sure the hub you choose has the correct bolt pattern for the steering wheel you’re using. You also want to verify the hub is compatible with your steering column.

“For example, trying to use a larger OEM-style quick release hub on a race-style steering column simply won’t work. It doesn’t matter if you prefer the look or feel of the larger hub, it still has to match the column design.”

The final thing to consider is how the steering hub and column interact with each other during use. You don’t want a quick release steering hub that feels awkward, difficult to operate, or has reliability issues.

The IDIDIT push-connect system is one example of a simple and robust quick release setup. We’re currently using one on Project Number Cruncher, and it has proven easy to use and reliable.

So before you hit “add to cart” on a quick release steering hub, make sure you do your research and select the right product for your specific application.