Originally Posted by hankster2

We all know these trucks are theft targets. Let's just say I'm on my 3rd diesel in two years (currently a 2004 F350 6.0L that I've had for 1 month). The first two were stolen and totaled (the first one was stolen 3 times before being totaled), and the current one was very recently broken in to but only "almost" stolen. The damage included the driver's door lock cylinder, sawn through steering wheel (I had a club installed), drilled out ignition cylinder, and smashed windshield (from trying to get the club off).

I know it's relatively easy to set up these trucks to be theft-proof (kill switch) or to be retrieved (Apple Airtag). The issue is that at that point they've already busted in so you're stuck having to replace lock cylinders, door handles, etc..

I was trying to come up with theft-proofing that also had a visual deterrent to stop the attempted theft before it started. I'm considering removing the already compromised steering wheel and installing a race-car style removable steering wheel that I can take with me. I'm just starting research and I realize that means I'll lose cruise control and an air bag and potentially have to relocate a horn switch, but seems like it would be a small price to pay to know my truck will still be there. That combined with a kill switch and I would probably feel comfortable leaving my truck unlocked (but completely empty). For me this is an occasional vehicle not a daily driver.

I'm very experienced mechanically but realize I have no experience when it comes to aftermarket race-style mods and parts. Does anyone know if this is even possible? Does the steering wheel sit on a pretty standard spline or will I have trouble finding a coupler? Will I be throwing codes with the air bag removal? I was considering trying to relocate the cruise control buttons to somewhere on the lower dash but that's not deal breaker. Any constructive input is appreciated.