Steering Column Harmonica Connector Help Req
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 2,142
Likes: 484
From: Leonardtown Maryland
Steering Column Harmonica Connector Help Req
Hi! Need a little guidance on how to remove the Harmonica Connector on my 82's steering column so I can troubleshoot a left rear blinker out problem. I don't want to break anything more than I am already capable of.
Actual problem is with the left rear turn signal lamp. Bulb is good and I have a good ground. I would like to test the switch but believe I need to disconnect the Harmonica to check it out.
I also appear to have broken the Hazard Light switch testing if that function lights the bulb (which it does), because it won't stop flashing now. Tried turning the steering wheel from lock to lock but that didn't stop it.
I apprieciate any suggestions. Thanks!
-Chris
Actual problem is with the left rear turn signal lamp. Bulb is good and I have a good ground. I would like to test the switch but believe I need to disconnect the Harmonica to check it out.
I also appear to have broken the Hazard Light switch testing if that function lights the bulb (which it does), because it won't stop flashing now. Tried turning the steering wheel from lock to lock but that didn't stop it.
I apprieciate any suggestions. Thanks!
-Chris
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 2,142
Likes: 484
From: Leonardtown Maryland
Update
Update:
For now, the lamps are working normal. I sprayed some electrical contact cleaner into the opening for the Emergency Flasher switch and was able to get it to pop out. I am guessing that I also jiggled something back into place trying to get the Harmonica connector apart because turn signals are functional. I would still like to know how to get that long "Harmonica" switch off the column bracket if anybody can clue me in. Thanks for reading my posts.
-Chris
For now, the lamps are working normal. I sprayed some electrical contact cleaner into the opening for the Emergency Flasher switch and was able to get it to pop out. I am guessing that I also jiggled something back into place trying to get the Harmonica connector apart because turn signals are functional. I would still like to know how to get that long "Harmonica" switch off the column bracket if anybody can clue me in. Thanks for reading my posts.
-Chris
2026 Loser of the Year
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 36,559
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From: New Or-leens Loo-z-anna
Unless someone knows a trick, it is hard to remove/it's really wedged onto the bracket that holds it onto the column.
You don't need to remove it unless you find it easier to test when not connected to the column.
Try wiggling one wire at a time at the connector on the column with the key ON.
Test each terminal with a test light to see if the test lite reacts to wires being wiggled while the directional lever is engaged for Left or Right blinking.
You don't need to remove it unless you find it easier to test when not connected to the column.
Try wiggling one wire at a time at the connector on the column with the key ON.
Test each terminal with a test light to see if the test lite reacts to wires being wiggled while the directional lever is engaged for Left or Right blinking.
Safety Car
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 3,747
Likes: 713
From: Lafayette Louisiana
This is an aggravating job no doubt, working behind the dash anytime.
On the harmonic connector, I try to first figure out where the locking tab is; on the end? in the middle? one on each end? and then take a very small screwdriver and wedge that locking tab place open, then it should pull out. Sometimes of course after 40+yrs it is really stuck and so you might need a 2nd or 3rd screwdriver to pry it apart. Carefully too as you already know old plastic breaks so careful and easy is the best. You can also spray some WD40 on the connector and soak which also helps. I am usually in too big of a hurry, but removing the seat gives you better access. Hope this helps.
On the harmonic connector, I try to first figure out where the locking tab is; on the end? in the middle? one on each end? and then take a very small screwdriver and wedge that locking tab place open, then it should pull out. Sometimes of course after 40+yrs it is really stuck and so you might need a 2nd or 3rd screwdriver to pry it apart. Carefully too as you already know old plastic breaks so careful and easy is the best. You can also spray some WD40 on the connector and soak which also helps. I am usually in too big of a hurry, but removing the seat gives you better access. Hope this helps.
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 2,142
Likes: 484
From: Leonardtown Maryland
Thanks and agree '20mercury.' I have a Backyard Buddy lift and am able to get the car into a position that I can work at a less back breaking angle (sometimes). Finding those magical connector and brace release points can be a challenge. Using electrical contact cleaner is what I think loosened up my stuck emergency flasher switch. Since the turn signal started working again I have not revisited the "Harmonica" connector. looks like the connector bracket is plastic and I certainly don't want to break it.
