Steering Column Repair: Combination switch replacement, torx screws, chevy c1500

Question

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Followup To

Question -
I am trying to replace the turn-signal combination switch on a 1990 Chevy c1500 pickup.  Does the steering wheel have to come off, or is there some sort of release on the side of the steering column?

Thanks!

Answer -
Yes, the steering wheel will have to be pulled so that you can have access to the turn-signal and combination switch. These are two separate switches, but are mounted together within the column. As I sort of mentioned, you will need some kind of pulling tool ( steering wheel puller) to remove the wheel from the shaft. Once the wheel is off, you will then need a lockplate compressing tool to remove the clip holding the locking plate onto the shaft. Only then will you have access to the two switches. From there it's a matter of a few phillips head or torx screws/bolts.

I DO recommend you use the proper special tools listed above for disassembly. It can get rather complicated if you try to force anything using unprescribed methods. Hopefully you have them or know someone who does. If not, then the prices run in the neighborhood of the $10-$35 range for each of the two special tools.

I hope that helps. If you need further assistance please feel free to contact me again.
Have a great day!
-Jay

Thanks Jay.  You wouldn't happen to have any photos of this operation, would you?  I'm thinking of the inside of the column.  The combination switch I purchased has an electrical lead attached, and I don't know where it goes or how far it goes down the column.  I'm just trying to get as much info as possible before getting into that column.  I know there are a bunch of springs, electrical connectors, etc. that I don't want to screw up.  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Shane,
You'll probably be able to get it with a little help from Roy Bond at the chevyasylum. He offers a little tutorial on loose columns and has a great pictoral that shows all the basic elements. That website is at:

http://www.chevyasylum.com/column/tiltcol.html

Make sure the switches are exactly the same because if you install it and it doesn't work, you most likely won't be able to return it for an exchange.
Have a great day!
-Jay