Horn rod
 

Does anybody have any tricks of holding the switch spider back so I can put the retainer clip on. I’m not strong enough to put the retainer clips on

Re: Horn rod
 

Take a look at this tool that is commonly used to push against the spring tension.
https://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/p...7952&cat=41753

Re: Horn rod
 

Is anyone using that tool? What do you think of it?

Re: Horn rod
 

I have that tool, and have managed to get that &%$$!! half-moon keeper in place with it. I would, however, highly recommend having a helper to use the tool so you can concentrate on getting the keeper in place. Or vice versa.

Re: Horn rod
 

Well worth the money, order with other things to save shipping whether you need it or not sooner or later it will save a lot of grief.

John

Re: Horn rod
 

Two things I have done:

1. Clamp the horn rod to the steering wheel so the rod is not pushed out of the column while pushing the spider into the spring. Protect the wheel with urethane pads.
2. Counter drill a shallow hole into a small block of wood. Locate the tip of the rod in the hole while pushing against the spider with the block of wood. Pushing on the wood is less painful than pushing on the spider.
Also, use small needle nose pliers to install the clip.

Re: Horn rod
 

Check the fit of the retainer clip on the rod and in the spider before you assemble w/the spring.

Re: Horn rod
 

Every repro retainer clip I've used needed to be dressed with a file to fit in the recess.

Re: Horn rod
 

I run a suitable ruler through the steering spokes to hold the light rod down or grab a passerby to hold it down . Before I do anything I check the "C" clip fits the spider snuggly sometimes needs dressing .I take two small cable ties and loop them around the bail ears and the spider legs . I push up on the spider and tighten the cable ties until I can seat the clip . I seat the clip so the "U" is upwards .As the spider is securely held and doesnt wobble it is easy to fit the clip a small mirror and needle nose pliers . In practise the clip is happy to stay there as long as you have not pulled the spider up too far .I steady the spider by hand and clip the cable ties then check clip seating . Remove ruler or passerby ,job done , works for me every time but then again I have practise .

John still in Suffolk County and hopefully Turlock ,Bakersfield and Chickasha next spring Yippeee !!!

Re: Horn rod
 

I just put the spider on and switch, I used some really good duct tape installed in an X pattern, did I mention really good tape! Over the switch and down the side of the wheel.

Re: Horn rod
 

I use a long paint stir stick wedged in the steering wheel to hold it down (on the button), if you don't have that a friend comes in handy.
Be creative...

Re: Horn rod
 

Buy the spider tool mentioned. I just removed my horn rod and putting it back together with the handy little tool was very easy....on first try.

Re: Horn rod
 

Same here, but check the fit of the "C" clip before setting up...

Re: Horn rod
 

I used a piece of 1 1/2" x 2" black painted wood held in place over the horn button by 2 rubber tipped wood clamps, and made SURE the clip fit the shaft (polished a little), before installing.

I think the wood was pine, and I doubt the black paint had any affect.