Combination Switch

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the steering column combination switch (turn signal/headlight/dimmer switch) on a 1972 Ford F-100 with 302ci V8.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Combination switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering wheel nut (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake
2. Place automatic transmission in Park or manual transmission in Neutral
3. Disconnect negative battery cable and secure away from battery post
4. Allow steering column to cool if vehicle was recently driven
5. Verify replacement combination switch matches original part configuration

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark steering wheel position
   Using masking tape and marker, mark the steering wheel position relative to the steering column shaft. This ensures proper alignment during reassembly and maintains the centered position of the front wheels when the steering wheel is straight.
2. 2

   Remove horn button and disconnect horn wire
   Press and twist the horn button counterclockwise or pry carefully with a flat-blade screwdriver to release the retaining clips. Disconnect the horn wire from the terminal on the back of the button. Set the horn button aside.
3. 3

   Remove steering wheel retaining nut
   Remove the steering wheel retaining nut from the center of the steering wheel using a socket. Note the presence of any washers or spacers and their orientation. Do not discard the nut unless replacing.
4. 4

   Remove steering wheel
   Install the steering wheel puller according to the manufacturer's instructions, threading the puller bolts into the threaded holes provided in the steering wheel hub (verify count and pattern for your specific wheel). Tighten the center screw of the puller gradually while applying steady pressure to pop the steering wheel free from the splined shaft. Do not hammer on the steering shaft. Remove the steering wheel and set aside.
5. 5

   Remove turn signal canceling cam and spring
   Remove the turn signal canceling cam from the top of the steering column shaft. This is typically a plastic piece that rides on top of the shaft. Note the orientation of the canceling spring beneath it and remove the spring carefully to avoid loss. Set both components aside in a safe location.
6. 6

   Disconnect combination switch wiring harness
   Locate the turn signal switch wiring harness connector, typically routed down the column and connecting near the base of the column or under the dash. Before disconnecting, use masking tape to label each wire or connector position. Press or release the connector retainer and pull the connector apart. If corrosion is present, apply electrical contact cleaner.
7. 7

   Remove steering column cover screws
   Remove the Phillips-head screws securing the upper and lower steering column covers (verify exact count for your column). The screws are located around the perimeter of the column shroud. Keep screws organized for reassembly.
8. 8

   Separate steering column covers
   Carefully separate the upper and lower steering column covers by pulling them apart. The covers may have clips in addition to screws, so gently work around the perimeter if resistance is encountered. Remove both halves and set aside.
9. 9

   Remove combination switch mounting screws
   Locate the screws securing the turn signal switch assembly to the steering column. Remove them completely (verify exact count and driver type for your column).
10. 10

    Remove combination switch assembly
    Carefully pull the combination switch assembly away from the steering column. Feed the wiring harness through any retaining clips on the column as you remove the switch. Note the position of any ground wires or additional connectors. Remove the assembly completely from the vehicle.
11. 11

    Install new combination switch
    Position the new combination switch assembly onto the steering column in the same orientation as the original. Align the mounting holes and ensure the actuating mechanism engages properly with the column. Feed the wiring harness through any retaining clips. Install the 2 mounting screws and tighten securely but do not overtighten plastic housings.
12. 12

    Reconnect wiring harness
    Reconnect the combination switch wiring harness connector, ensuring the locking tab clicks into place. Verify all connections are secure and no wires are pinched between column components. Remove any tape labels used for identification.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall upper and lower steering column covers, ensuring all clips are engaged before installing the 4 screws
2. Install the turn signal canceling spring onto the steering column shaft with proper orientation
3. Install the turn signal canceling cam over the spring
4. Align the steering wheel with the reference marks made during disassembly and slide onto the splined shaft
5. Install the steering wheel retaining nut with any washers or spacers in their original positions and tighten securely
6. Reconnect the horn wire to the horn button terminal and reinstall the horn button with a clockwise twist or by pressing until clips engage
7. Reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery post

Verification

• Turn ignition key to the "On" position (engine does not need to start)
• Test turn signal operation in both left and right positions, verifying that signals flash at proper rate and cancel when steering wheel is turned back
• Test headlight switch through all positions: off, parking lights, and headlights
• Test high beam/low beam dimmer function and verify high beam indicator illuminates on dashboard
• Test hazard light function if integrated into the combination switch
• Verify horn functions properly by pressing center of steering wheel
• Check that steering wheel is centered when front wheels are pointing straight ahead
• Test drive vehicle to confirm turn signal canceling mechanism works when turning corners

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