Steering column connector wiring

[cwareham]

Hi there-

The diagram for the steering column connector has 8 pins. Some for high beams, turn signals, horn and lights, and it also has what they call "common" (e.g. headlights common) connectors for the same.

Can I assume that "common'' in this case means "ground"?

thanks!
Chris

[pgermond]

You can assume so (I really don't recall), but a volt/ohm meter will answer your question for certain.

[Jim Harding]

Common usually means that this connection is part of every switch contact in the assembly. It can be connected to ground or it can be connected to a +12 volt source. For example, if the horn, lights, whatever, have one of their connections connected directly (via a fuse hopefully) to +12 volts, then the common 'ground' would complete the circuit when actuated. This is usually the preferred method for switches, but it is not always (or has to be) done this way.

Like Phil said, the only way to make sure is to use a volt/ohm meter, or a 12 volt test light to see what the common lead is connected to.