Steering Column Repair: 00 Silverado 4-way/hazard switch, gm vehicles, parts catalogs

Question
QUESTION: The hazard flasher switch on the top of the steering column in my '00 Silverado ("new" body style) first worked (popped up, to turn the flashers on), then required persistence, but now even hitting the switch with a hammer won't cause it to pop up.  The spring action is still there but it won't pop up.  I've read some conflicting information on the net about whether the switch can be replaced with a hazarg-switch-only part (maybe 15174447?) by just pulling it up out of the column, or whether the entire multi-function switch (turn signal, etc.) has to be replaced with a much more expensive part (and how much disassembly is required to do the latter.)  The GM parts catalogs seem to say that the multifunction part is required, even on models that people report they have successfully fixed with the less expensive switch.  Any information will be appreciated.  Thanks very much.

ANSWER: Hi Paul:

Sorry about your situation.  The multifunction switch needs to be replaced as an assembly and yes, it's very expensive.

We have recently uploaded pages and a description of how to replace the multi-switch on GM vehicles.  They are broken down into step by step detailed instructions.
http://www.stolenandrecovered.com/multi.pdf
http://www.stolenandrecovered.com/

I hope these instructions help you.  If not, please contact me again for more information.
Lastly, if you need parts to repair this column simply email us on our "Contact Us / Order Parts" page and we will get back in touch with you personally.

Good luck

Doug

http://www.stolenandrecovered.com


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks very much for replying to my question.  I think it won't be worth it for me to replace the switch just to get the hazard functionality back, but your instructions will be very helpful if I do try to do that. Thanks very much for putting them on the net. It appears that being able to replace just the hazard switch component of the multifunction switch may be referring only to Blazer/Jimmy/S10 models, not the full-size trucks.

Answer
Hi Paul:

I'm not sure what the others are referring to, but since 1995 GM has not made a replaceable 4-way button for the designs with the 4 way on top of the column (ALL TRUCKS).  Once that reed or black plastic button breaks, there is no way to repair it. It's part of the switch assembly.  
I hope this helps you
Good luck
Doug