Pontiac 1990115 Switch,Steering Column Ignition

The switch is fitted inside the channel of the brake pedal support and is not accessible at all without first lowering the steering column to which a certain support must be provided. It is operated by a rod and rack R8, where a gear is provided at the tip of the lock cylinder 'T' engaging the toothed upper portion of the rod. Optional equipment includes the Air Bag system and if so, then it must be deactivated before proceeding. The switch should be rotates with the OFF position unlocked at the two positions away from the top position of the switch and the rod should be in the lock position to the uppermost detent position. The switch assembly can be pulled out if the two switch screws are unscrewed. For installation, it should also be switched off and unlocked and the lock cylinder as well as the actuating rod should be in their positions. This activating rod should then be fitted into the switch before the switch is placed on the column and the mounting screws are tightened: care should be taken to use only the recommended screws to avoid compromising on the collapsibility of the column. Steering column also should be refitted at the end of assembly.

Disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery, ensuring to disable the anti-theft feature on models with an anti-theft audio system before disrupting power. Place the ignition switch in the LOCK position, and if the key lock cylinder has been removed, pull the actuating rod up until a stop is felt, then move it back down one detent. Remove the driver's side knee bolster, and for models with an analog instrument cluster, take out the retaining screw and disconnect the shift indicator cable from the steering column shroud. Remove the two nuts securing the steering column to the instrument panel while supporting it, then lower the column onto the driver's seat. Take out the two bolts securing the switch to the steering column, withdraw the actuating rod, and remove it from the vehicle. Before installation, ensure the ignition switch is in the LOCK position; if a new switch is being installed, it will be pinned in the LOCK position with a plastic pin that should be removed after tightening the switch mounting bolts. Insert the actuator rod, position the switch on the steering column, and secure it with the retaining bolts. After installation, check for proper switch operation and reposition if necessary, with the remaining installation steps being the reverse of removal, ensuring the steering column support nuts are securely tightened.

Proceed with removing the ignition switch by disconnecting the two wiring leads, starting with the one farthest from the steering wheel. Remove the stud and screw securing the switch to the column, and lift off the switch, making sure to pull it up from the column due to the protruding ignition actuator rod. Before installing the new switch, use a flat-head screwdriver to move the slider inside the switch to the 'Accessory' position on the extreme right, then slide it two detents to the left to the 'off/unlock' position. This position is necessary for installation. Place the switch on the column, guiding the actuator rod into the slider recess. Install the stud and screw, tightening them to specifications. Finally, connect the two wiring leads to the switch and reverse the procedure.

Disconnect the two wiring leads, starting with the one farthest from the steering wheel. Remove the stud and screw securing the switch to the column, and lift off the switch, making sure to pull it up from the column due to the protruding ignition actuator rod.

The steering column must be lowered and properly supported before accessing the switch.

For models from 1977 to 1981, the switch should be set to the 'OFF-UNLOCKED' position before removal. If the lock cylinder has already been removed, the switch actuating rod should be pulled up until a definite stop is felt and then pushed down two detents.

On 1995 and later models, when working with the steering column switches, start by removing the steering wheel and the steering column cover. Remove the Torx-head bolt, unplug the electrical connector, and lift off the turn signal switch. Installation is the reverse of removal. If needed, center the airbag coil by removing it, turning it over, depressing the spring lock, rotating the hub as instructed, and releasing the spring lock. Finally, install the wave washer and the airbag coil, ensuring the lower wiring harness is taut to prevent damage when turning the steering wheel.

The 'LOCK' position can be determined by inserting a screwdriver in the actuating rod slot, moving the switch slide up until a definite stop is felt, and then moving it down one detent.

To work with the windshield wiper/washer switch on 1988 through 1994 models, remove the steering wheel, compress the locking plate, remove the clip retaining it to the steering column, and proceed with the disassembly steps. Disconnect the handle from the windshield wiper switch and drive the pin through the switch housing to remove it. Reinstallation is the reverse of removal.

The switch actuating rod should be pulled up until a definite stop is felt and then pushed down two detents.

Before installing the new switch, use a flat-head screwdriver to move the slider inside the switch to the 'Accessory' position on the extreme right, then slide it two detents to the left to the 'off/unlock' position. This position is necessary for installation.