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.

The Air Bag system should be disabled before proceeding.

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.

Place the ignition switch in the LOCK position.

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.

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.

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 remove the headlight dimmer switch on 1988 through 1994 models, you should remove the steering column support bracket bolts and nuts, lower the steering column, disconnect the dimmer switch electrical connector, and remove the retaining bolts.

Disconnect the two wiring leads, starting with the one farthest from the steering wheel.

The ignition switch is located inside the channel section of the brake pedal support as a precaution against theft of the vehicle.

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.