Steering Column Switch Problems (Turn Signal)

[iamtheari]

I am pedantic about directional indicators / turn signals / blinkers. So it's fitting that they should break down on my car.

Last fall at a DE I noticed that the detent was no longer holding the turn signal switch in place. I attributed this to a broken or dislodged detent or other part inside the control stalk caused by manually canceling the turn signal repeatedly throughout the weekend (after the person I'd waved by using the signal had passed me).

I removed the steering wheel and steering column surround pieces this evening and this piece came out while I manipulated the turn signal switch up and down to see if I could spot any loose or broken parts.

Anyone know what this is or if it can be placed back into the control stalk?

Also, does anyone know the proper removal procedure for the steering column? Does the clockspring need to come off first? Any special warnings?

Thanks as always.

[Nine9six]

Sorry, I cant tell you what your mistery part is or where it came from; however...

Make sure you have your radio code handy before disconnecting your negative battery terminal. After disconnecting the neg terminal, let things sit for approx 30 minutes to allow capicitors to discharge, prior to removing the air bag and clock spring.

You do this to avoid throwing an air bag light, should you energize the system by turning the key to the 3rd position (not yet engaging the starter).

If you throw an air bag light, you will need someone with a Porsche Hammer diagnostics tool or PST-2 computer to reset the air bag light.

...Ask me how I know...

[iamtheari]

I think the radio code advice only applies to 993 cars. I have a 964 and apologize for not saying so in my original post. I appreciate the wisdom, though. I've seen lots of similar stories here on the forums, all ending the same way as yours: "ask me how I know." I actually disconnected the battery and put it on a trickle charger/maintainer elsewhere in the garage for the duration of my various projects, about 2 weeks before removing the airbag. I'm hoping that's enough but you never know on those Apollo-era computers.

[964TargaC2]

I dont know what that piece is but I can tell you that if you dont find a 964 column switch assembly that the 993 will fit without modification

[iamtheari]

Good to know, thanks. I had been wondering that. The column surround fits over it okay, too?

[964TargaC2]

I dont see any reason why it would not but I did not use my 964 surround, I changed to the 993 when I put on the three spoke wheel

[creaturecat]

The is an easy project. Here is a step by step:http://forums.rennlist.com/rennforums/964-1989-1994-911/251973-another-diy-replacing-your-turn-signal-assembly.html

The only difference in procedure that i would recommend - unhooking the wires after the assembly has been removed (to make room).

[iamtheari]

Your link got cut off, but I found it:

Another DIY: Replacing your turn signal assembly

Thanks for the reference. I am glad to see clear pictures and instructions for what I would otherwise have bungled my way through whilst sweating bullets about breaking the contact unit / clockspring.