Omega

Honest John Back Room » Technical matters
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Sun 17 Aug 2003 17:16
Omega - Ian J
Advice would be welcomed.
I want to replace the indicator/main beam switch on my 1997 omega.
To do so I have to unfortunately remove the steering wheel and consequently the airbag according to the Haynes manual; the latter makes me nervous.
(a) is there another way to avoid disturbing the airbag
(b) do I need a puller to get the steering wheel off
(c) provided you wait for the capacitor to discharge is removing the airbag relatively safe and straightforward. I wouldnt want the expense associated with a replacement airbag
Many thanks for any suggestions/advice
Ian
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Sun 17 Aug 2003 21:57
Omega - Dynamic Dave
Don't know about the Omega, but on past Vauxhalls, such as Astra's, Cavaliers, and my current Vectra, I have never needed to remove the wheel to get the shroud off that covers the steering column.
I'm wondering if Haynes suggest removing the wheel so as to gain access to the two screws behind it that help hold the cowling together. I just rotate the wheel 90 degrees one way to remove one, then back 180 degrees the other way to remove the other one.
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Mon 18 Aug 2003 08:35
Omega - SpamCan61 {P}
I've just done this very same job on my '96 Omega and I didn't have to remove the steering wheel. Proceed as DD suggests; the only fiddly part is wiggling the two (hopefully now loose) parts of the shroud about until they come off (takes between 30 secs. and half an hour); then you can change the switch unit. Refitting is the reverse of removal; as Mr. Haynes would say.
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Mon 18 Aug 2003 22:23
Omega - Sooty Tailpipes
Why are you replacing this stalk? I have a problem where most of the time the left turn signal does not cancel (such as after leaving a roundabout) however, it does sometimes, or if testing it stood still.

I see Vx have a TSB headed "Turn Signal Does not cancel" - Remedy - Fit turn signal stalk correctly!

Well, I dont know whether this means they were fitted badly at the factory, or they are asy to fit incorrectly if th have been removed and replaced.

It is something I'd like to sort out one day.
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Mon 18 Aug 2003 23:52
Omega - Ian J
Joosisiqu

I had a problem with the full beam part of the switch it was arcing and switching to full beam when I used the indicators.
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Mon 18 Aug 2003 23:48
Omega - Ian J
Many thanks SpamCan61. You were right job took about 10 mins.
Ps only had to take off top shroud.
Kind Regards
Ian
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Mon 18 Aug 2003 23:45
Omega - Ian J
Success, very many thanks for the advice Dave
Just proves what a great web site this is.
Kind Regards
Ian
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Tue 19 Aug 2003 13:37
Omega - SpamCan61 {P}
Glad to know it worked out OK; mine had the same problem of random full beam operation when cancelling indicators. I got into the habit of flicking the full beam switch as I cancelled the indicator; but SWMBO wasn't kee on driving it in that condition.
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If you cover no more than 100 miles per day and have easy access to a charging point at home or work, then an EV is ideal for you.

Is an electric car right for me?