Turn Signal Switch Replacement. Help with wires through column.

[Hazieview]

I've used the search feature but I cannot find anything related specifically to the 1973-87 turn signal switch replacement. Specifically how to run the wires through the steering column. I was just thinking about cutting and splicing the wires or installing a plug in case I have to change the turn signal switch again. Any ideas on an easier way to remove and reinstall the turn signal wiring back through the steering column? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

(I gave all the proper tools including the compression tool. Any other advised maintenance to consider would be greatly appreciated also. )

Thank y'all!

[Jstock85]

I replaced mine on 85 c10 a few months back and ill tell you first its not simple! I took the steering column apart all the way to the bracket holding it up close to the pedals. Unsnap the switch connector and slide it out from the top. There was some kind of plastic sleeve holding all the wires tight to the column. Loosen that by hand and slide the connector down from the top of the column. Reinstall column in reverse order. Its not easy bro! Take your time!!

[Bandit130]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aZmx1NktDB4

[Hazieview]

It looks like there are 4 bolts on the bottom of the column. Once I take the bolts out the wiring harness should free up... I hope lol

[Dead Parrot]

I think you have it mostly figured out. Pull the old one out to take with you to the parts place. The connectors change once or twice from year to year.

Be sure to note the steering wheel angle and mark the metal plate for angle as well. Otherwise, the metal plate and steering wheel can get installed at the wrong angle relative to straight ahead when you reassemble everything.

[JDSurge]

I just listed a new turn signal switch for a 73 - 76 Chevy / GMC truck on ebay if anyone is interested. $20 It came from LMC, still in the package.

[CSHADES]

Take the mount and the plastic sleeve off. Bend the wires so the connector is 90 degrees to the wiring. Use a stiff piece of mechanics wire thread through the open end of the turn connector and as you are pulling the connector through the column push on the wire to help feed the connector through it. After you get the connector all the way through do the same to the new connector/wires and use the mechanics wire to help guide it down through, you may have to wiggle it back and forth but you should have no real problems getting it through. I have done a lot of these and after you get the hang of doing them they are easy. Same thing with cruise control lever wiring when changing the handle.

[hatzie]

Originally Posted by Dead Parrot

I think you have it mostly figured out. Pull the old one out to take with you to the parts place. The connectors change once or twice from year to year.

Actually the turnsignal switch harmonica plug pinout is the same from 78-87. It's likely the same all the way to 91.
The actual switch changed when the dimmer and wiper was moved to the column to accommodate the differing turnsignal/control-stalk... but the wipers, cruise control, and dimmer are still on separate plugs. The turnsignal harmonica plug pinout is unchanged.
73-77 are dicey.