Completed the arduous task of replacement using the Under Hood/ R&R entire switch method. My more flexible wife of 52 years did the under-dash chores of guiding the new switch purchased from Rock Auto ($125) into position as I pulled gently on the dental floss. I was not flexible enough to work under-dash and change just the plastic assembly. Tried the skewer but she could not align the studs with the holes . Took a small florist wire with floss attached and ran thru the lower mount hole near master cylinder . She then detached the floss from the wire and it was removed leaving only the floss string. Tied a slip knot around the lower stud, then retreated back outside and began to draw the string carefully while she guided the BLS into position. Once the studs were aligned, she firmly pushed the unit so the studs emerged thru the holes and enabled the 2 nuts to be attached. I must explain I have adjustable extension bar with rubber bumper on each end that held the brake pedal down, handy for doing the Boot and Bonnet Struts. Operation took about 1 hr. and lost only 1 short 1/4" extension. No harsh words exchanged and both are pleased this is complete. Both of us now understand why the Young, Flexible and Small handed assistant is a requirement for this operation.

 

Yes, I did this four years ago when I was 24 and was able to do it in 15 minutes. I imagine a 10 year old child should be able to get it done in 2 minutes. This is a job for the youth. You can always pay them for their effort in ice-cream.

 

That's why I just remove the switch from the frame. The first time, many years ago, I replaced the whole assembly, working alone. Not a pleasant experience.

 

I just did job a few weeks ago, I didn’t remove the whole assembly but I took the switch out by loosening the top nut and removing the bottom nut.

Loosening the top nut was the hardest because of the awkward angle and tight space. I tried various combinations of tools but I think the one that finally worked was one of those ratcheting type wrenches “gear wrench”.

Took me about 2 hours or more. Which included soldering new switches in.

I’m sure a professional with the right tools could do it in a lot less time