In a sport where split-second decisions can make or break a race, NASCAR drivers rely on their finely-tuned machines to navigate the high-speed ovals. But what happens when a crucial piece of equipment goes astray? Enter Morgan Shepherd, the veteran driver who recently found himself in an unexpected situation during a race.
We've all left a cup of coffee on top of our car before…
BUT THE STEERING WHEEL?! Only in NASCAR. pic.twitter.com/n3oRvWaTWx
— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) June 13, 2024
Picture this: The roar of engines, the smell of burnt rubber, and the adrenaline pumping through Morgan Shepherd’s veins as he hurtles around the track. It’s a typical NASCAR race day, and Shepherd is behind the wheel of his #89 car, aiming for victory. But fate had other plans.
As Shepherd exited the pit road, something caught the attention of fans and fellow drivers alike. Perched on the roof of his car was none other than his steering wheel! Yes, you read that correctly—the very device that allows a driver to control the car had somehow dislodged and found its way to an unconventional location.
Why was a Steering wheel on the top of the NASCAR car?
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Morgan Shepherd operates on a shoestring budget. His team has only one full-time employee, and that person likely handles multiple roles during race weekends. Imagine the scene: Shepherd’s lone crew member juggling tasks, including attaching the steering wheel, making adjustments, and ensuring the car is race-ready.
Before we delve into the details, let’s address the second piece of tape on the steering wheel. At 12 o’clock, there’s a strip of tape that helps the driver index the wheel. When the car stops in the pits, this tape ensures that the wheels are straight. Tight fender clearances mean that front tire changers need easy access to remove and replace the wheels during pit stops.
The steering wheel on the roof wasn’t Shepherd’s primary wheel. NASCAR teams use two steering wheels over the race weekend—one for crew members to turn the car while pushing it through the garage area (the “crews pushing in neutral” wheel) and another for the driver during the race itself. The crew’s wheel lacks radio buttons or switches and has a larger diameter for better leverage when the car isn’t running (as it lacks power steering).
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