Date:         Fri, 20 May 2011 20:42:34 -0400
Reply-To:     David Beierl <dbeierl@ATTGLOBAL.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         David Beierl <dbeierl@ATTGLOBAL.NET>
Subject:      Re: Steering wheel locked after replacing blower motor
Comments: To: Phil Menchions <pwmenchions@HOTMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <BLU157-w565279FBB1547EB487FDE3BE700@phx.gbl>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"; format=flowed

At 07:30 PM 5/20/2011, Phil Menchions wrote:
>
>I'm familiar with the situation you described usually seen when the
>wheels are cut hard over when parking. In this instance the wheels
>are straight ahead but I suppose it is possible that with the
>steering column torquing after the bolts were loosened it may have
>had the same effect. I'll give it a go again tomorrow.

Doesn't matter what direction, only that there's tension against the
lock bolt.  Your description qualifies in spades.  If it were to
happen again I suggest unlocking the ignition before bolting it back up.

>It is also disconcerting that simply having the battery ground wire
>hooked up results in the side marker and dash lights illuminating.
>The only electrical mod was to splice a spade connector for the
>blower motor itself. Otherwise it was clean up whatever grounds
>could be see, plug in and go. (or not)

Suggest begin by unplugging the headlight switch.  That will show
whether your issue is with the switch or not.

Yours,
DAvid