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Old 11-21-2021, 10:04 AM   #1
Randy Lausch
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Default 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
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Old 11-21-2021, 10:23 AM   #2
rotorwrench
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Default 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
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Old 11-22-2021, 09:04 AM   #3
old31
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Default Re: Horn rod

Is anyone using that tool? What do you think of it?
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Old 11-22-2021, 10:11 AM   #4
Greg Jones
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Default 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.
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Old 11-22-2021, 10:22 AM   #5
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Default 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
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Old 11-22-2021, 10:32 AM   #6
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Default Re: Horn rod

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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.

Last edited by ThosD; 11-22-2021 at 11:16 AM.
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Old 11-22-2021, 11:25 AM   #7
katy
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Default Re: Horn rod

Check the fit of the retainer clip on the rod and in the spider before you assemble w/the spring.
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Old 11-24-2021, 06:39 AM   #8
dmaxweb
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Default Re: Horn rod

Quote:
Originally Posted by katy View Post
Check the fit of the retainer clip on the rod and in the spider before you assemble w/the spring.
Every repro retainer clip I've used needed to be dressed with a file to fit in the recess.
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Old 11-24-2021, 02:21 PM   #9
john charlton
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Default 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 !!!
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Old 11-24-2021, 04:41 PM   #10
Big hammer
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Default 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.
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Old 11-24-2021, 05:40 PM   #11
burner31
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Default 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...
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Old 11-24-2021, 06:31 PM   #12
Oldgearz
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Default 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.
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Old 11-27-2021, 02:41 PM   #13
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Default Re: Horn rod

Same here, but check the fit of the "C" clip before setting up...
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Old 11-27-2021, 02:51 PM   #14
Ted Duke
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Default 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.
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