86' Ranger Turn signal switch on column broken

[bozo4ford]

Hello,
I have a 1986 Ranger, 4 Cylinder 2.3, 5-speed.
My mechanism for the turn signals on my steering column is broken. Not only is the handle broken off, but I have to either lift up and keep lifting for right turn, or push down and keep it pushed down for a left turn. This is getting old.
Question ~ Is this a do-it-yourself repair, or do I go to Ford dealership and be forced to pay the exorbitant amount of senseless money to have this repaired? If the answer is the latter, then I will be stuck with it. Thanks!

 

[1AJeremyD]

I have the switch itself. You can view the part through the link below.

http://www.1aauto.com/1A/turn-signal-lever/Ford/Ranger/-/-/1986

Really something like this only requires the steering wheel to be removed and you can rent the tool at most auto parts stores.

 

[bozo4ford]

I did it! I replaced my turn signal switch…… No easy task, unless I was a ford mechanic with all the right tools!!!

I disconnected the battery to be safe.

There are two lock down plastic tabs on each of the two wiring harnesses going into the switch.
On the Top harness,
Top lock down is visible, and the other is underneath the same piece.

On the bottom harness,
You can see the one from underneath, but there is one more hidden inside of a narrow well on the underside of this peice...GOOD LUCK with that one, I had to break that tab to be able to remove this bottom harness.

The switch part number is the Autozone Duralast UDS425 Combination Switch.

I also removed my old arm out of the switch which was just the metal rod, because my lever handle broke off some years ago.

Ford can get this arm/rod, but it would cost $20.00. Does anyone know where to get the arm lever cheaper than 20.00? I already called Autozone and Pep Boys, and no luck. Thanks and good luck!