How to Install an NRG Quick Release: 8 Easy Steps

Installing an NRG Quick Release on your car can greatly enhance both its style and functionality. Known for precision, durability, and ease of use, NRG Quick Release Adapters allow you to quickly remove and reattach your steering wheel, making them a popular choice for performance drivers and automotive enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking to improve your car’s handling, enhance theft protection, or simply upgrade your driving experience, installing an NRG Quick Release is a project you can accomplish with some basic tools and a bit of patience.

This guide will walk you through how to install an NRG Quick Release in 8 easy steps, ensuring a smooth and secure installation. Let’s get started!

What is an NRG Quick Release?

Before diving into the installation process, it’s important to understand exactly what an NRG Quick Release is. Essentially, it’s a specialized adapter that fits between your car’s steering wheel and the steering column, allowing you to detach the steering wheel quickly. This feature is especially beneficial for racers and drivers who prioritize security, as removing the wheel can prevent unauthorized use of the car. In addition, NRG Quick Release adapters are built with durability and precision in mind, ensuring smooth and safe operation for daily drivers and competitive racers alike.

NRG offers a wide range of Quick Release models, with each providing unique features to cater to different driving needs. Some are designed for heavy-duty performance, while others prioritize ease of use or aesthetics. The installation steps, however, remain largely the same across all models.

Tools You’ll Need:

• NRG Quick Release Adapter (specific to your vehicle’s make/model)
• NRG steering wheel hub adapter
• Aftermarket steering wheel
• Ratchet wrench and socket set
• Torque wrench
• Flathead screwdriver
• Allen keys
• Trim removal tool
• Optional: Loctite or threadlocker

Safety First:

Before starting any installation, it’s essential to disconnect the car battery to prevent electrical accidents, especially if your steering wheel has airbag components. Also, ensure the vehicle is parked on level ground, and you have enough workspace to comfortably complete the job.

Step 1: Disconnect the Car Battery

As mentioned above, safety is a priority, so before any disassembly, you need to disconnect the car’s battery. Start by opening your car’s hood and locating the battery. Use a wrench to loosen the nut on the negative terminal and remove the cable. This prevents any accidental triggering of electrical components, including the airbag system.

Why Disconnect the Battery?

If your car’s steering wheel has an airbag, disconnecting the battery is critical to avoid accidental deployment while removing the wheel. Additionally, this step protects you from short-circuits when handling the car’s electrical components.

Step 2: Remove the Existing Steering Wheel

The next step in the NRG Quick Release installation is removing your car’s existing steering wheel. This process can vary slightly depending on whether you’re working with a stock or aftermarket wheel.

For Factory Steering Wheels:

1. Locate the Airbag Fasteners: Most factory steering wheels are equipped with airbags. You will typically find airbag fasteners located on the back of the steering wheel, secured with screws or clips. Use a trim removal tool or screwdriver to access them.
2. Remove the Airbag: Gently pull the airbag unit out from the steering wheel once the fasteners are removed. Be cautious of any electrical connectors for the airbag and horn. Disconnect these carefully by pulling them free from their sockets.
3. Loosen the Steering Wheel Nut: Use a socket wrench to loosen the large nut that secures the steering wheel to the steering column. Leave the nut partially threaded for now; this helps prevent the wheel from flying off unexpectedly as you remove it.
4. Remove the Steering Wheel: Wiggle the steering wheel to break it free from the splines on the steering column. Once it’s loose, you can fully remove the nut and pull the wheel off.

For Aftermarket Steering Wheels:

If you already have an aftermarket wheel, the process is much simpler. You’ll only need to remove the screws that attach the wheel to the hub adapter and detach any electrical connections. Once the screws are out, lift the steering wheel off the hub.

Step 3: Install the NRG Hub Adapter

Now that your old steering wheel is removed, you can begin installing the NRG hub adapter. This adapter will act as a bridge between your car’s steering column and the NRG Quick Release system.

1. Align the Hub Adapter: Position the NRG hub adapter onto the splines of the steering column. The hub should slide on easily if properly aligned, but don’t force it into place.
2. Tighten the Steering Column Nut: Once the hub is properly seated, thread the steering column nut back onto the column and tighten it with your socket wrench. Be sure to use a torque wrench to tighten the nut to the manufacturer’s specified torque setting.
3. Reconnect Electrical Connections: If your steering wheel has electrical components like the horn, reconnect any wiring to the hub adapter. You may need to refer to the instructions that came with your NRG adapter for specific wiring guidance.

Step 4: Attach the NRG Quick Release Base

Now that the hub adapter is securely installed, it’s time to attach the NRG Quick Release base. This is the part that will remain on the hub and allow for the quick detachment of the steering wheel.

1. Align the Quick Release Base: Position the base of the NRG Quick Release onto the hub adapter. The base should have a series of holes that align with the holes on the hub.
2. Secure the Base: Use the provided screws and Allen keys to secure the NRG Quick Release base to the hub. Be sure to tighten the screws evenly in a criss-cross pattern to ensure a secure fit.

Step 5: Attach the NRG Quick Release Locking Mechanism

The NRG Quick Release system features a locking mechanism that allows the steering wheel to be quickly and easily removed. Now you’ll attach this locking mechanism to the base.

1. Position the Locking Mechanism: The locking mechanism is the part of the NRG Quick Release that allows you to detach the steering wheel with a simple pull or push. Align the mechanism with the base of the Quick Release and secure it using the screws provided.
2. Ensure Proper Operation: Once the locking mechanism is installed, test it to make sure it engages and disengages smoothly. You should be able to easily pull back the mechanism to remove the wheel and push it forward to lock the wheel back in place.

Step 6: Attach the Steering Wheel to the NRG Quick Release

At this stage, your Quick Release is almost fully installed. Now, it’s time to mount your aftermarket steering wheel onto the NRG Quick Release system.

1. Align the Steering Wheel: Place your aftermarket steering wheel onto the NRG Quick Release locking mechanism, aligning the holes in the wheel with the holes in the Quick Release.
2. Secure the Steering Wheel: Use the provided screws and Allen keys to attach the steering wheel to the Quick Release mechanism. Again, tighten the screws evenly in a criss-cross pattern to ensure the wheel is firmly in place.

Step 7: Test the Installation

Before you hit the road, it’s essential to test your installation to ensure everything is secure and functioning as expected.

1. Test the Quick Release Functionality: Detach and reattach the steering wheel several times to ensure that the NRG Quick Release system operates smoothly and securely. The locking mechanism should engage firmly when the wheel is attached, and it should release easily when you pull back the Quick Release.
2. Check for Steering Play: With the steering wheel attached, turn the wheel left and right to ensure there’s no excessive play or wobbling. The steering wheel should feel solid and responsive, just as it did before the Quick Release was installed.

Step 8: Reconnect the Car Battery

Once you’re satisfied with the installation and functionality of your new nrg quick release, it’s time to reconnect your car’s battery.

1. Reconnect the Negative Battery Cable: Reattach the negative cable to your car’s battery and tighten the nut with your wrench.
2. Test Your Car’s Electrical Components: Start the car and test any electrical components associated with the steering wheel, such as the horn. Ensure that everything is working properly before taking the car out for a drive.

Final Thoughts

Installing an NRG Quick Release is a relatively straightforward process that can greatly enhance both the security and style of your car. Whether you’re a racing enthusiast looking for better handling or simply want the convenience of a removable steering wheel, this upgrade is a worthwhile investment. By following these 8 easy steps, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of an NRG Quick Release in no time.

With your new NRG Quick Release installed, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your car is more secure and your steering wheel is now tailored to your driving preferences. Be sure to periodically check the tightness of all screws and connections to maintain the longevity and safety of the system.