Steering Column Repair: S-10 Tahoe Steering Column, chevrolet pickup truck, windshield wipers

Question
Hi,
I have a 1986 Chevy S-10 Tahoe that has developed some problems I think may be connected, and would appreciate some help with.  For several months now when using the turn signal lever the windshield wipers would come on until the signal lever returned to neutral. Today, my wipers quit working although I can hear the wiper motor working. At the same time I've noticed the right signal lights don't blink, but come on steady.  I've checked the bulbs, both front and rear, and they come on.  But, it seems as though the rear bulb is not getting enough juice....the bulb is really dim.  The front one seems fine.  Any suggestions?

Answer
Hi Judy:
Sorry about your problems.

You have two individual switches for the wipers and the turn signals.  although they (and the cruise control and the high beams) all work form the same lever, believe it or not, they are 4 individual switches and parts.
The wiper problem you have is fairly common although it is difficult to diagnose.  When the wipers fail, it could be a circuit in the wiper motor or a bad switch.  (the signal is either being sent and ignored by the motor or the signal is not being sent by the switch.  Both will fails in the same manner.  The best (and simplest) way to find out which is bad is to plug in a new switch in the harness under the dash and see if it works the same or not.  If it still fail, then it's the motor, If it works fine then the switch will cure it.

The turn signals however are much easier to repair.  the socket that is weak (in the rear needs to be replaced.  The ground has gone bad and will not complete the circuit, therefore it will not flash.

I hope this helps.
Lastly, we have recently uploaded some videos on our website to give you first hand viewing of how to remove, disassemble, and reassemble the parts you are talking about. They are broken down into step by step 2-3 minute detailed videos with instructions. Although the video is for a Chevrolet pickup truck, the column is very similar to yours.

http://www.stolenandrecovered.com/video/index.php

I hope these videos 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