How to Install a Signal Lever in a 1996 Ford Windstar

The Ford Motor Company introduced the front-wheel drive Windstar to replace the rear-wheel drive Aerostar in 1995. However, due to customer and dealer support, Ford sold the Windstar side-by-side with the Aerostar for three model years. The 1996 Windstar saw the debut of the Vulcan 3.0-liter engine. Interior-wise, the Windstar saw no appreciable changes in 1996, and the instruments and controls remained the same, including the turn signal lever. Turn signal operations for the Windstar run through the multifunction switch assembly, housed in the steering column. The turn signal lever is part of the multifunction switch.

Instructions

1

Pry the clamshell off the steering column -- the clamshell mounts over the steering column, between the steering wheel and the instrument cluster. Once you've pried it loose, you'll need to guide it over the turn signal lever to remove it.

2

Disconnect the multifunction switch from the steering column wiring harness by removing the wiring harness connector from the body of the switch.

3

Extract the multifunction switch retaining screw, using a Phillips screwdriver. Lift the switch out of the steering column and set it aside.

4

Place the new multifunction switch into the steering column. Thread the retaining screw in with your thumb and forefinger. Tighten the screw with the Phillips screwdriver.

5

Plug the wiring connector into the new multifunction switch. Slide the clamshell over the new signal lever and down into place. Make sure the hazard switch clears the hole in the top of the clamshell before snapping the clamshell into place.