I currently have a Caterham and as is the custom for the newer cars (those
in the last 8 years or so) it has a removable steering wheel. It does give a
great sense of security when we travel all over Europe during the Summer (in
convoy - see
http://www.badgerum.com/se7enstour/) but you do feel a berk
when a crowd of you, all sporting little MOMO wheels in hand, turn up at a
restaurant in the middle of the day.
Some of the quick release mechanisms aren't very good either. The wheel
never feels tight on the spline. Caterham fits a sprung type which is
properly quick at releasing whereas I feel for a security-only measure it is
more important that it fits tightly on the spline, even if it takes 1 second
longer to get off. There was talk a while ago on the Se7ens list
(
www.se7ens.net <http://www.se7ens.net/> ) of there being a better QR
mechanism available but I can't find the details now. Worth having a look at
Demon Tweaks if you have their catalogue (I don't have one to hand).
Irritatingly, their web site doesn't show everything they stock.
Other mechanisms include an FIA battery master key/switch. Any similar FIA
key would fit any switch but the chances of a thief having one to hand is
slight. Ultimately though some sort of electronic immobiliser affords you
the best sense of security if you want to leave you car unattended. We leave
Se7ens for short periods all over Europe, whether it be for midday dinner or
overnight at various Hotels, and we've never (yet - crossed fingers) had any
problems. Perhaps the Se7en is a less likely car to attract unwanted
attention owing to the fact that it's pretty obvious to spot and not very
easy to get into, but it doesn't stop owners worrying as you guys are.
Incidentally, I'm selling my Se7en and looking for a knackered +2 for
renovation. I need extra seats for my new family. Wish me luck.
-----Original Message-----
From: ***@***.***lto:***@***.*** Behalf
Of steve_071
Sent: 08 July 2005 02:58
To: ***@***.***
Subject: [LotusElan.net] Re: Elan Anti Theft - Recommendations?
Hi John,
At home I disconnect the battery as in Steve W's reply. I also have
a six foot long case hardened chain which I wrap around the chassis
and secure to an anchor plate in my garage floor with a case hardened
lock. If nothing else it would slow thieves down.
When I am out I don't let the car out of my sight
. Not quiet that
drastic but mine is a weekend toy and doesn't get parked anywhere
bad. I have read about removable steering wheels in some of the
forums which I think would make it terribly difficult to take. I
think
the problem is you don't really need to drive an Elan to steal it,
you
could just push it away
.
The dog idea sounds good!
Steve.
CopyrightC LotusElan.net and the author:
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