I repainted my dash, steering column etc. and want to get rid of the aftermarket turn signal mechanism attached to the steering column. I like to have the original look, but don't have a clue how the original setup works. I see that there are some reproductions for the turn signal switch, but what else do I need ?
The switch itself is a small part of it, you need the cup and the mechanism with it's pivot bolt and spring, and the cancelling plate which screws to the back of the steering wheel. 53 was the first year the "new" turn signal switch was used, it was also used on 54 cars, 53-62 vettes, and 53-59 trucks. 57-59 trucks got a deep dish steering wheel so the cup and mechanism were different to put the lever at an angle, so those parts won't work on your 53. Also the front light sockets need to be replaced with two filament type if that hasn't already been done, and you'll want the lights in the instrument cluster, and you'll need the flasher can and wiring.
Thanks squirrel, that helps a lot. I'm from Holland, so not familiar with all american terms, but I think I have the cup and the cancelling plate (see pictures). Also the original wiring is going through the steering column, but when I see the reproduction switches they all come with new wires. So the main thing I need now is the mechanism with it's pivot bolt and spring, right ? Are these hard to find or available as reproduction ? At last I don't really get why I need the front light sockets since everything works fine with my aftermarket stuff. Again thanks a lot !!
If you already have the correct front sockets, you don't need to change them. The wires are crimped to the switch, you need to change the wires when you change the switch. It's difficult to attach old wires to a new switch. Notice that the cup you have is not round, that is a common problem, they get distorted from having the retainer wedge over tightened. It also looks like you are missing the retainer wedge, which fits in the hole closest to the center of the cup. usually when the cup is not round, you need to grind the bottom of the wedge so it will have more travel, so it can grip the column tightly. You might want to just buy a complete ***embly, and see how it works, since you are so far away it would be difficult to find the various pieces. http://www.cl***icparts.com/1954-56-Turnsignal-Cup-***embly/productinfo/53-531A/ but make sure you ask the company if they have the part in stock before you order. This company will take orders for parts they do not have! and then they have your money until they ship the part.
Thanks Squirrel, So the ***embly in your link will fit my car, right ? Does it work with 12 volt ? If so, I quess I go for that if the shipping costs are not killing me Most of the time the costs for parts are not really that bad, but to get it overseas.... pfff
The parts book shows different switch for 6v and 12v, but I don't know what's different about it. Could be the wiring connectors, which shouldn't make any difference since you probably don't have the original part of the harness to connect it to. The 55-56 truck units I have do have the 1953 date on the housing, and they look identical to the switch from a car, as far as I can tell. http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/1929_57chevyparts/57cmpc0256.htm
Hey, I bought one of these originals off Flat Top Bob. Does the wiring go through the column somewhere? THe column I have is supposed to be a 53, but i couldnt tell where to run the wires through.
there should be a cutout in the column about an inch square for the wires to come out. there should also be a smaller one near the top of the column for the wires to go in.
The switch housing hides the top hole. The 6v switch will work fine. Only difference is the cloth covered wire.
Just went and looket at mine, didnt see these holes. Maybe I have an older column? Might try and shoot some pics and see if I can identify it
are the 53 and 54 tail lights interchangeable? i want to swap the set up, if not how much fab is involved?
Bigcaddypoppa- not a lot to change. I held up my 54 bezels to my 54, and noticed slight flange differences. Wont take much to change though
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