Now I need tips/suggestions for installing a new turn signal switch

[wareagle]

Does anyone have any tips/suggestions for installing a new one? Unfortunately, there is no switch currently in my truck so I have nothing to use as a reference point. Pictures would help also

 

[Fellro]

The fun part is getting the wires to go down through the column... The long plug has to be turned sideways so it can go through, then the hazard button will mount with a screw through the side of the housing. 3 screws hold it to the column base. I think I still have a column from the 71 I used to have, if I do, I can get pics sometime.

 

[wareagle]

what about the brushes.. Heard to watch out for them when installing this switch

 

[Fellro]

not sure what that means... The closest thing to brushes I know about would be what contacts the clock spring.

 

[wareagle]

Clock spring?

 

[Fellro]

The plastic piece with brass contacts that goes behind the steering wheel and passes through it so as to not short out any time but when you press the horn cap.

 

[mustangtoby]

It can be a real chore. The first one I did I actually cut and spliced the wires instead of trying to fish new ones through the steering column, which only worked for a little while. I had to replace it again, I think it's easier if you pull the entire steering column from the truck to install it. It is worth it when you get done though. You can clean up and paint the column while you have it out...

 

[Mil1ion]

The other site has a how to article on it.

 

[wareagle]

Which site?

 

[blacksnapon]

Make a diagram of where each of the wires are in the plug, then remove them from the plug. Use stiff wire and thread it down the plastic sleeve. Attach the wires to the stiff wire with tape, pull it through the sleeve. Reattach the wires to the plug using the diagram.

 

[Mil1ion]

Here it is

http://www.ford-trucks.com/article/..._Stop_Lamp_Diagnosis_for_70s_Ford_Pickup.html

 

[wareagle]

Make a diagram of where each of the wires are in the plug, then remove them from the plug. Use stiff wire and thread it down the plastic sleeve. Attach the wires to the stiff wire with tape, pull it through the sleeve. Reattach the wires to the plug using the diagram.

Herein lies the problem. The "mechanic" that was working on my tranny at the time removed the old switch before having it shipped out here. And he ordered the new switch the day it was shipped. I have no idea where each of the wires go into the plug.

 

[blacksnapon]

Herein lies the problem. The "mechanic" that was working on my tranny at the time removed the old switch before having it shipped out here. And he ordered the new switch the day it was shipped. I have no idea where each of the wires go into the plug.

I mean the plug on the new switch.

 

[73F100Shortbed]

It should slide through fairly easy. Just have to go slow. To me remove each wire sounds like it may take longer, but I never tried it like that.

 

[wareagle]

Now, would I need a steering wheel puller?

 

[73F100Shortbed]

You might. Might came off by loosening nut and wiggling wheel until it came off. If it doesn't then you should be able to borrow one from auto zone. Harbor freight sells them cheap as well

 

[Mil1ion]

I have pulled so hard on steering wheel with both biceps that I broke the wheel and slammed my head against the rear slider.

Use a puller !

The connector will fit through the slot on a fixed column..but you have to remove the plastic connector on a tilt column.

I have photos and illustration of the proper position of the wires in the connector so you won't be stuck.

 

[Fellro]

You can get them down a tilt, but you have to take them apart more... Typically, the plug has to be turned to go down the column, the main trick is keeping them turned while you pull it through the column.

 

[wareagle]

Looked at the new switch last night and it does not have a plug, only 7 wires.

Now I have to figure out where each wire goes in the plug itself. Since I didn't take the old switch out, I assume the plug on the wiring harness that has 10 connector holes is the correct one to attach the switch to? It is located right behind the wiper switch and in the general area of the hole at the bottom of the steering column where the wires come out.

 

[wareagle]

I have pulled so hard on steering wheel with both biceps that I broke the wheel and slammed my head against the rear slider.

Use a puller !

The connector will fit through the slot on a fixed column..but you have to remove the plastic connector on a tilt column.

I have photos and illustration of the proper position of the wires in the connector so you won't be stuck.

Dennis, I would greatly appreciate the illustration of the proper position of the wires. This afternoon after work I'm going to see if the wires on the new switch happen to match, color-wise, to the old switch and, in turn, to the connector as well...