For models excluding Tilt and Telescope Columns and those equipped with air bags, always support the steering wheel and avoid bending the steering column. Begin by removing the steering wheel and the three cover screws along with the trim cover. The redesigned lock plate on 1976 and later columns can be removed by inserting a screwdriver into the cover slot and prying it out at two slots to prevent breakage. Next, depress the lock plate, remove the snap ring, and take out the lock plate, spring, and horn contact signal cancelling cam. Position the turn signal lever to the right turn position, remove the attaching screw, and take out the lever. For models with a dimmer switch on the column, remove the actuator arm screw and the arm. Pull the turn signal lever straight out, depress the hazard warning knob to remove it, and take out any screws if present. Remove the three mounting screws for the turn signal switch, the instrument panel lower trim panel, and disconnect the turn signal harness. Remove the four bracket attaching screws and the bracket, then for 1977 and later models with automatic transmissions, loosen the shift indicator needle attaching screw and remove the needle. Support the column while removing the two steering column bolts, ensuring it does not drop suddenly. Remove the bracket and wiring from the column, loosely reinstall the column supporting bolts if removed, and pull the switch straight up with the wire protector and harness. For Tilt and Telescope Columns, disconnect the battery ground, remove the steering wheel and lock plate, and the upper bearing preload spring. Position the turn signal lever to the right turn position, remove the lever and screw, and for columns with dimmer switches, remove the actuator arm and screw before pulling the turn signal arm straight out. Remove the hazard warning knob by pushing in and taking out the retaining screw. Center the column and remove the three turn signal switch attaching screws, the instrument panel lower trim pad, and disconnect the turn signal harness. Remove the toe pan bolts and the four bolts attaching the bracket assembly to the jacket, then remove the shift indicator retaining clip. Support the column and remove the bracket assembly, taking out the wire protector from the turn signal wiring and pulling the switch and wiring from the column. Before installation, coat all moving parts with lithium-based grease, insert the switch wiring into the column, place the switch in the right turn position, and push it straight down until seated. Install the switch attaching screws, tighten them to 25 ft. lbs. (34 Nm), position the turn signal in the center, connect the wiring to the harness, and install the hazard warning knob and turn signal lever. Install the lock plate, carrier, and steering wheel, followed by the wiring protector and bracket, tightening the bracket bolts to 18 ft. lbs. (24 Nm) and the nuts to 24 ft. lbs. (32 Nm). Install the shift indicator needle or clip, position the connector in the bracket on the right side of the jacket, and finally install the instrument panel lower trim pad and reconnect the battery ground. For air bag equipped models, follow the procedure for removing the steering wheel and air cushion module, then remove the three screws from the retainer and cover, carefully lifting them from the column. Insert a screwdriver blade into the locking tab and lift the slip ring from the column, remove the lock plate, spring, and horn contact signal cancelling cam. Position the turn signal lever to the right turn position, remove the attaching screw, and take out the lever, also removing the actuator arm if applicable. Pull the turn signal lever straight out, depress the hazard warning knob to remove it, and take out any screws if present. Remove the three mounting screws for the turn signal switch, the instrument panel lower trim panel, and disconnect the turn signal harness. Remove the four bracket attaching screws and the bracket, then remove the bracket and wiring from the column, loosely reinstalling the column supporting bolts if removed. Pull the switch straight up with the wire protector and harness. To replace the slip ring, align it with the slot in the bowl and push it into position, ensuring all locking tabs are securely positioned. Install the cover and retainer, aligning it over the locating tab, and tighten the screws to 15 inch lbs. (2 Nm).
Posted by GMPartsGiant Specialist 
