Turn signal switch

[Justin84k10]

I need to replace my turn signal switch because it has to be held down to turn on the left turn signal. What is involved in doing this? Not really sure how it comes off at all.

[zieg85]

question...  Is your steering wheel centered?

[Justin84k10]

When I drive the truck and am going straight the steering wheel is not centered.

[zieg85]

If when the steering wheel is centered will the turn signal switch work like it is supposed too?  If so you need to have the wheel centered by adjusting the tie rod ends the appropriate direction.

[Justin84k10]

Even when the wheel is centered it still does not click down and stay.

[zieg85]

http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=12525.0

browse through the link above to see the column taken apart.  Tilt wheel or no tilt wheel, getting to the turn signal switch is the same.  You may find that one of the springs that is connected to the switch that cancels the turn signal by the cam is the problem

[hatzie]

You can usually replace the broken latch rather than the whole switch.  Considering the quality of some replacements I've seen lately I would keep the old switch if you can.

A latch plate depressor is a mandatory tool.  They're around $10.

Turn signal latch kit is Dorman 49300.  It's $8 not $133. You get the commonly broken plastic piece in the switch and both springs.  It's supposed to fit GM columns from 1967 - 1999
http://www.amazon.com/Dorman-49300-Signal-Retainer-Spring/dp/B000C5G5WU

If the cancelling cam or the horn contact that passes through it are damaged they're cheap too.

[hatzie]

This is how you use the lock plate tool.  Very simple.
I would disconnect the battery unless you like listening to the horn like this guy.

[Justin84k10]

Thank you! I will hopefully be taking it part soon and getting that piece. I won't have to disconect the batter because my truck horn doesn't work or it may not even have one so that's another thing added to the long list of things to do on it.