Pontiac Turn Signal Repair - Directional Stability - Problem Solver Tech

We were fortunate that Jim had an extra steering column for this photo. The one on the left with the notch is '65 and later. The one on the right is from the '64 and has no notch. To clarify, the '64 column has only one notch, while the replacement directional switch requires two notches.

After the area was located, a clean rag was stuffed in the column to eliminate debris and the notch was cut into the sheetmetal.

With the sides cut, a pair of pliers was used to break off the piece of metal, revealing a newly formed locating notch. (Use good mechanical practice and employ a file if required to smooth the altered area and leave no sharp edges.)

This is the collar that will eventually attach to the steering column and where the directional switch will reside. Note the clock position of the notches (these have nothing to do with the one that was cut, which was on the column and not the collar). It's a bit of a trick to get the switch to fall into place and usually requires some wiggling.

With the collar back on the steering column, the wiring harness was fed through and the switch was properly located.

Don't be alarmed if the switch needs to be removed and repositioned for the wiring harness to fall into place.

It may be necessary to use a flashlight and play with the wires so they are positioned properly. If the wires don't fit into the proper location, the switch will not mount correctly.

With the switch properly located, the mounting screws were gently installed. (Do not force anything. If you need to get harsh with either the screws or the switch, something is not laying properly and the switch will need to be pulled back up and repositioned.)

A small amount of high-temperature grease, such as that for wheel bearings, was placed on the cam. This will make the operation smoother and the cancel function last longer. (Do NOT use grease with a low-temperature melting point!)

Finally, the directional arm, the spring and steering wheel (be sure to align the wheel with the centering line on the column shaft) will be reinstalled and the job is complete. Enjoy your properly functioning directionals!

This is an exploded view from the '66 Tempest manual of a standard non-tilt steering column. Use it as a general reference for this repair.

The tilt wheel is more complex due to its ability to move. This '66 Tempest exploded view may be helpful to readers who have this design.