'81 dasher steering wheel (really ignition switch)

I'm trying to keep this oldie going.

Today the ignition switch jammed. Won't turn on completely, although the steering wheel unlocks. Starter won't run. Lights don't go on. But the seat belt buzzer works.

It seems I need to pull the steering wheel to replace it, and I got only as far as the rubber cover. There's this plastic horn activator bar across the center of the wheel that I can't figure out how to get off, so I can get to the steering wheel nut. There's got to be a little trick. I have the Bently manual but it seems to omit this important detail. (I could swear I did this long ago, but can't remember how.)

I'm sure one of you knows and can let me in on it. And if you have any other advice on the ignition switch I'm listening.

TIA.

-- Joel

P.S. If you reply be email please correct my address.

Reply to
Joel
Loading thread data ...

Is this the 4-button steering wheel? the center piece just pries off with a screwdriver. It does require a dinsconcerting amount of force and it's been a while since I've had one so I can't tell you exactly where the little tabs are.

good luck,

nate

Reply to
Nate Nagel

Thanks Nate for responding. Unfortuantely it sounds like you're remembering a different model. Mine has no buttons, just a continuous bar that spans the two spokes of the steering wheel. Under the rubber cover is a black molded plastic piece that is sort of suspended at three points with springs: one on each outer spoke and one close to the center. I've tried prying but nothing moves and I'm afraid it will break. I need the secret place to press or whatever you do to release it. The steering wheel nut is hidden behind it so it must come off somehow.

Is there maybe another forum I could try? I've had no luck with google. There used to be a Dasher Owner's Group on Yahoo but I can't find it now. Must've died and taken its archives with it.

-- Joel

Reply to
Joel

Unfortunately, I can't help you with this one. I don't remember seeing this piece on my 77. As soon as I removed the horn button, I was able to access the nut.

They moved away from yahoo. Their new URL is:

formatting link
Robert

Reply to
Robert Kidd

Put up a picture on a website since that will help us see what you see. I think you need to see if that plastic piece you say "nothing moves" is what you need to remove. Usually if you don't find some screws, the horn button just pops off.

later, dave

Reply to
dave

How about visiting the dealer and asking the parts department to show you the microfilm images of the steering wheel? Play along with them pretending to be dumb about how to get it off so you can replace "the contacts" or something. Most parts department folks are friendly enough if you hit them up when they're not too busy.

-Bill Kearney

Reply to
wkearney99

MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.