'92 Golf ignition switch replacement- steering column details

[n...@doe.carleton.ca]

I need to dismantle the upper steering column to replace a faulty
ignition switch on my '92 Golf. Following Bentley, I removed the
steering wheel and column stalk switches. At this point what I'm
seeing doesn't agree with Bentley. While Bentley describes a lock
washer holding a spring, similar to the picture in

http://www.4130-products.com/step/ign/index.htm

what I'm seeing is a lot more like the A3 column shown in

http://forums.tdiclub.com/showthread.php?t=105906

where a long splined bushing sits over the spring.

Bentley has a cryptic note to the effect that VW changed the steering
column design on the A2 in '89 to add a splined adapter, but gives no
details.

Am I correct in assuming that the '92 A2 uses the A3 design? I'm
preparing to pull off the splined adapter (sounds like a real treat,
but there is lots of advice on the web on how to do this job). I want
to make sure there are no more little surprises buried underneath it.
Fortunately the shear bolt holding the column housing is loose (not
even finger tight), so that should come off easily.

Thanks in advance!

Garry

PS based on the number of accounts of DIY replacement posted on the
web, it looks like ignition switch failure is epidemic on A2s and
A3s. Too bad VW didn't make the mounting screw accessible from the
outer side of the column (or use a suitably rugged switch).

[dave AKA vwdoc1]

IMHO removal of the splined bushing is the hardest part of the job! Maybe
the '92 Golf you have is really close to the '93 models which should have
the splined bushing. Not sure.

Buy your ign switch from the dealer!
I believe that heat causes the tiny springs inside of the switch to lose
their tension.
I had replaced the springs in one, rebuilding it, and got it to last longer
than an aftermarket switch! 8^)

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