I'm trying to remove and replace the turn signal switch on a 1997 Cougar. To get at the switch the upper and lower steering column panels need to be removed as well as the ignition switch cover. What do I do to get enough room to remove the panels. It looks like I may have to remove a dash trim panel below the steering column or remove the steering wheel. Is one of these correct? If so how is it done?

Thanks for any help

 

Wiggle, tug, bend and the upper and lower panels come out. Now can I get them back in...........................

 

If you remove the lower panel underneath the steering wheel, you can remove the lower steering column panel; after that you can lower the entire column by removing two nuts that hold the column up.

 

Thanks Michael. I tried to remove this panel once and stopped when I could not figure out how it was attached at the top. After your post I did remove the panel with a little more "tugging". It is held in by 3 "w" prong fasteners. Your post was helpful as I had not tried to reinstall the upper and lower steering column panels yet. The first replacement switch I had installed was defective, just touch it and the blinkers came on as well as the wipers and spritzers. I was waiting a few days to make sure the second switch worked OK. Again, thanks!