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Multifunction switch replacement
If you own a 1993 Ford anything with the truck and full size car steering column, you've probably had a problem with the windshield wipers not operating in the interval position and inoperative hazards. It didn't rain for about two months after I acquired my Bronco, so I had no idea about this problem. When it did rain, it really rained and I discovered that my wipers didn't always work and I had a sunroof leak. After I fixed the leak, I started looking up Technical Service Bulletins and Special Service Messages for that symptom on the Broncos (working for Ford helps). I found that this was a prominent problem and there was a revised turn signal switch (Ford calls it a multifunction switch), so I picked up a new switch from work and took it home to install (about $40 my price, $70 customer price).
I know what all you Chevrolet and pre '92 Ford buffs are thinking, the
dreaded turn signal switch. However, the new column from Ford allows you to
change out the m/f switch without removing the steering wheel. The easiest way
to detect this problem is to turn the switch to the interval position, and
jiggle the wiper selector. If you hear a relay clicking off and on, this is
most likely your problem.
|
Time to do |
30min to 1 hr |
|
Tools required |
T-30 torx bit and driver |
|
Parts required |
m/f switch |
|
Cost |
about $55 - $ 70 |
Before you tear into your truck, please read my legal disclaimer!
Step #1
Although not completely necessary, it makes life a lot easier if you remove the lower dash cover. On the full size pickup, you carefully pry the trim covers off between the lower dash and upper dash. They are usually wood grain or silver in color. You might need torx bits to remove the cap screws behind the trim panels. There should also be two screws in the bottom of the lower dash panel.
Step #2
Remove the keyswitch by using a punch awl or small Phillips screwdriver to press the tab in the bottom of the steering column with the switch in the unlocked position. Turn it to the on position and pull out the switch.
Step #3
Remove the trim panels on the steering column. There are three Phillips head screws that go up through the bottom trip panel. There is a fourth one on the way back of the right side. You will also need to remove the tilt column adjuster, which just unscrews, before you remove the panels. You might find it easier to remove the lower panel before the keyswitch for easier access to the tab that unlocks the switch.
Step #4
The switch is held on by two torx screws and has two electrical connectors. Remove the two screws and carefully remove the two connectors.
Step #5
Put some electrical grease on the connectors and install the switch.
Step #6
Reinstall everything in the reverse order that you took it apart.
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