My left turn signal suddenly started to not work unless I hold it in just the right position. Now my right signal is slowly doing the same thing. It will click into place like it is supposed to, but then you have to hold up on it just a little bit get it to connect.

My question is: How do I get into the steering column to see about diagnosing what is wrong? Removing the steering wheel seems to be the only route I've found and I don't have a socket big enough.

 

If you have an 81 then what you need is a column set that you can rent/loan from your local parts store. It will have everything but the sockets and screwdriver needed to do the job.

 

Sounds like a turn signal switch going bad. Other than basic hand tools, you'll need a steering wheel puller, and a lock plate removal tool, both can be rented. Pretty much a 13/16ths socket for the steering wheel nut, the puller, lock plate tool with a 7/8ths wrench or socket, a couple of pics or small screwdrivers, and a phillips. Not too difficult.