Turn Signal Switch

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the turn signal switch assembly on a 1972 Ford F-100 with 302ci V8, requiring steering wheel and column cover removal.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Turn signal switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Electrical contact cleaner × 1 — Use as needed

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake firmly
2. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait 5 minutes
3. Position front wheels in straight-ahead position
4. Gather all tools and new parts before beginning disassembly
5. Take photos of wire connections and component positions for reference during reassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove horn button and mark steering wheel position
   Press down and rotate the horn button counterclockwise to remove it from the center of the steering wheel. Disconnect the horn wire connector. Using masking tape or a marker, mark the position of the steering wheel relative to the steering shaft so it can be reinstalled in the same position.
2. 2

   Remove steering wheel retaining nut
   Using a socket wrench, remove the large steering wheel retaining nut from the center of the steering shaft. Keep this nut in a safe place as it will be reused during reassembly.
3. 3

   Remove steering wheel
   Install the steering wheel puller onto the steering wheel, threading the puller bolts into the threaded holes on either side of the wheel hub. Tighten the puller center bolt gradually and evenly until the steering wheel releases from the shaft taper. Remove the steering wheel carefully, keeping the puller aligned to avoid damaging the shaft threads.
4. 4

   Remove turn signal canceling cam and spring
   Remove the turn signal canceling cam (plastic piece with tab) from the top of the steering shaft. Note its orientation. Remove the upper bearing spring beneath it. Keep these parts together as they will be reused.
5. 5

   Remove steering column cover screws
   Locate and remove the screws securing the upper and lower steering column covers. There are typically 4 screws total holding the column shroud halves together. Carefully separate the two halves and remove them from around the steering column.
6. 6

   Label and disconnect turn signal switch wiring
   The turn signal switch has a multi-wire connector that plugs into the main harness at the base of the steering column (verify exact connector location on the 1972 F-100). Using masking tape and a marker, label each wire connection if the connector is not a single plug-type. Disconnect the wiring connector by depressing the locking tab and pulling it apart. If individual wires are present, take detailed photos before disconnection.
7. 7

   Remove turn signal switch retaining screws
   Locate the 2 screws securing the turn signal switch assembly to the steering column jacket. These are typically Phillips-head screws located on the top and side of the column near the switch housing. Remove both screws completely.
8. 8

   Remove turn signal lever
   Unscrew the turn signal lever from the switch assembly by rotating it counterclockwise. The lever threads directly into the switch body and should remove easily by hand. If equipped with hazard warning switch integrated into the lever, disconnect its wiring first.
9. 9

   Remove turn signal switch assembly
   Carefully pull the turn signal switch assembly away from the steering column. Guide the wiring harness up through the column jacket opening. Use care not to snag or damage the wires as they pass through the column. If resistance is felt, check for any remaining fasteners or obstructions.
10. 10

    Install new turn signal switch
    Feed the new turn signal switch wiring harness down through the steering column jacket from the top. Ensure wires are not twisted or kinked. Position the switch housing against the column jacket, aligning the mounting screw holes. Install the 2 retaining screws and tighten securely but do not overtighten, as the switch housing may be plastic.
11. 11

    Connect wiring and install turn signal lever
    Connect the turn signal switch wiring connector to the main harness under the dash, ensuring the locking tab clicks into place. Verify all individual wires are connected to their correct terminals if applicable. Thread the turn signal lever clockwise into the switch body until snug.
12. 12

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the lower and upper steering column cover halves around the column, ensuring all clips and alignment tabs are properly seated. Install the 4 retaining screws and tighten securely.
13. 13

    Reinstall canceling cam and spring
    Place the upper bearing spring onto the steering shaft, followed by the turn signal canceling cam. Ensure the cam is oriented correctly with its tab positioned to engage the turn signal mechanism when the wheel rotates.
14. 14

    Reinstall steering wheel
    Align the steering wheel with the marks made during disassembly and slide it onto the steering shaft, ensuring it is fully seated on the taper. Install the steering wheel retaining nut and tighten to the factory specification (confirm exact value in the 1972 F-100 shop manual; typically approximately 40 lb-ft). Reconnect the horn wire and install the horn button by aligning it and rotating clockwise until it locks.
15. 15

    Reconnect battery and test
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Turn the ignition to the ON position (do not start engine). Test the turn signal function in both left and right positions, verify the self-canceling action by rotating the steering wheel, test the hazard lights if equipped, and verify the horn functions properly.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all wiring connections are secure and properly routed away from moving parts
2. Verify steering wheel is properly aligned with front wheels in straight-ahead position
3. Double-check that all column cover screws are installed and tight

Verification

• Test left and right turn signals with ignition ON; verify front and rear lamps illuminate correctly
• Test turn signal self-canceling function by making a full left and right turn with the steering wheel
• Verify hazard warning lights function correctly if equipped
• Confirm horn operates properly when pressed
• Check that steering wheel is centered when driving straight ahead
• Verify no rattles or loose components in steering column during test drive

More procedures for this vehicle