The horn switch failed on my 99 4WD machine. It's a membrane-type switch, about 5" X 2" located between the air bag and the steering wheel cover. The problem is that Dodge will only sell the switch WITH the airbag cover, which with tax is nearly $300; the switch should cost $10-15.

Has anyone else replaced theirs with a non-Dodge part? If so, where did you find it?

-Motorhed.

 

Try your local auto recycling center (Junkyard)

 

I thought about doing that, but the idea of putting a used membrane switch in the truck doesn't sound like a good one to me. These vehicles sit out in the direct sun, and heat/light is the main enemy of the membranes in these switches.

...aside from a heavy horn hand, that is.

I'm reserving this solution for my contingency plan. Thanks for the idea, though.

 

Motorhed,
How did you get to the membrane switch. I had my airbag cover off once, but never pulled the bag itself out to be able to see the switch. Once I get into it, I could let you know how I resolve the same problem, because mine as failed too.

 

Hey!

Once you take the cover off and disconnect the wiring, there are 4 nuts that need to be removed on the 4 corners. The whole unit just lifts off, exposing the switch. It's like a 4" X 2" membrane switch.

Currently I am using a switch that I manufactured using a couple of metal plates and some denim fabric. I used a center punch to make dimples in the plates so that the plates would make contact easily, and wrapped the whole thing up using my buddies vaccuum sealer (one of those Ronco-type food sealers). It works, but I don't know how long it will last.

:P