Turn signal switch

[dacanuck]

I've got a new signal lever and switch for my '86. Any tips for replacing the switch? Will it pull through the steering column with the plug on or do I have to take the wires out?

[Captkaos]

Are you wanting to replace the turn signal/wiper stalk? If so you are going to have a BEAR of a time threading it back in the hole without taking the column apart.

[dacanuck]

Yeah, actually now that I read my thread it's a little vague...

I need to replace the wiper switch, and I also bought a new stalk to do at the same time since all the words are worn off the original. My wipers don't shut off when I turn them off, have to find that sweet spot halfway between off and on.

[Slonaker]

If you have cruise control, there will be one wire on the stalk that you have to pull through. The stalk just pulls straight out of the column. Mine took a little persuading.

After you get the switch off, unplug the wire that comes out of the stalk from the bottom of the column. Tie a strong piece of string to the plug, and wrap the it well with electrical tape. You want to make it smooth so the plug will slide through the column, and strong enough when you put the new one in that you don't damage the wire/plug. Pull the wire up through the colum with the string attached. tie the string to the new plug, and use it to pull the new wire back down the column.

I did my switch and stalk together like you are on my '86. It wasn't easy, but it wasn't too bad.

Slonaker

[85C1500]

On my 85 straight column/automatic, I have a similar problem to dacanuck. Wipers only work on hi when you jiggle the turn signal lever around and washer switch doesn't work. I got the steering wheel off and column disassembled down to/including the turn signal switch, but can't figure out how to get the turn signal lever and wiper switch out. I see there is a little plastic cover on the column just an inch or so forward of the turn signal lever. Does that little plastic cover just pop out to get access to the wiper switch???

[dacanuck]

That plastic cover comes off, but there is a small metal retaining ring around the shaft that holds it on. You need a steering wheel lock plate depressor tool to push the plate down and pull the ring out. You won't be able to do it without some kind of proper tool. You can get one at any auto parts store.

[piecesparts]

The top end of the colomn needs to come apart. The wire to the ignition switch most undoubtedly will need to be unplugged from the terminal block on the lower column. (this will alow the upper electrical plate assembly to slid out and give clearance to take the housing out of the way for the sturn signal switch removal. Since this switch is a combo turn, cruise, dimmer setup, there is a trick to get this out. There is apin inside the housing that holds this assembly and it has to be removed. Then you have to find the right (Oh so Just right) wiggle path to get the switch out and the new one in. (I took an old column from the salvage yard and played with it before I took mine out---it ws worth it) It is better to learn on the workbench, than screw up the good stuff in your truck. Outting everything together takes a little finnesse, but it can be done, just ensure you remember where each little part goes to. A camera can come in handy here.

[85C1500]

Thanks for the advice. I already have the retainer and lock plate off, electrical plugs at column base disconnected, and I've had the turn signal switch partially out. What I can't figure out is how to remove the dimmer pivot/wiper switch and turn signal lever. I have a factory GM shop manual and it explains how to remove most of this stuff in the column, but not the dimmer pivot/wiper switch.

Do I have to take the entire turn signal housing and ignition out to replace this switch? Photo attached shows turn signal housing and plastic cover just forward of the turn signal lever.

I was hoping I could replace this switch without tearing apart the whole column.

[dacanuck]

I had my column partly apart last night to fix the brake lights and I realized you can't replace the wiper switch without disassembling the upper housing...meaning the shifter and everything on the upper housing has to come off. Doesn't look too fun, so I'll be trying mine in the summertime!

[85C1500]

thanks dacanuck. As you can see, I put off fixing this problem for awhile. I will give that a try when I get home in a few days
chris