Horn push insulator - how easy to replace?

[trmorrisminor]

Hi all, another question I need your help on please is how easy is it to replace the horn push insulator on the steering column. The late steering lock/ steering column I have for the 1971 van has a shattered clear insulator , I have purchased a new one off ebay, but having not done this before I thought I would ask for advice. I am assuming the clip on the end of the tip i remove and the washer, and that will allow me to remove damaged insulator and spring, is that it? Is there anything I need to be aware of when doing this task? Haven't a clue if the horn currently works with this shattered piece of plastic in the column as its a full nut a bolt resto on the van and this is one of my next jobs to sort - have got the Austin hornpush button to fit when finished but as of yet have not fitted it.
Any comments would be gratefully appreciated.
Many thanks

[StillGotMy1stCar]

You’ve pretty much described it yourself.
The contact on the end that sits up inside the insulator is an ordinary bullet connector with a circlip fitted. The circlip just needs levering off the side to enable you to replace the new parts.
The only problem will be the circlip flying off never to be seen again!!
To save yourself a fright and annoying the neighbours it’s best to disconnect the battery.
I’d test the horn first before fitting your hornpush, a screwdriver or two from the centre bullet connector to a clean metal part inside the steering wheel should do the trick.
Testing it now might save having to remove and possibly damaging the hornpush only to find out it was OK and a fault lay elsewhere.

Regards John

[trmorrisminor]

Many thanks John, much appreciated, wont be doing it for a couple of weeks but will let you know how I get on.Thanks again for your help.
Richard