DIY: Replace/upgrade combination switch (wiper- and lightarm) [pic heavy]

[MartinLarsen]

Hi SL-I,

For some reason I can't attach more than 5 images in one post, therefore this DIY has been split up in steps, on step in each comment :)

I decided to do a DIY thread on replacing the combination switch i my BG. I have read on Forrester and Impreza forums that it is possible to get the adjustable wiper interval just by replacing the wiperarm/ stalk. Therefore I decided to try this, and bought a secondhand combination switch assembly from Germany (I am living in Denmark). So here it goes:

Attention! This involves removing the drivers airbag, so be careful. I can't be responsible for anyone getting hurt removing their airbag!

Tools required:
10 mm open wrench
17 mm socket and 150mm (6") extension
Ratchet for the socket
Philips #2 screw driver
Small flat blade screw driver (for stubborn connectors)
Torx 30 screwdriver
Torque wrench capable of 34Nm (25.3 ft-lb)
Light
Electricians tape (optional)
Masking tape (optional)

Step 1:
Disconnecting the negative battery terminal
2003

Step 2:
Remove the drivers side airbag, wait about 20 secs after removing the negative battery terminal before continuing to this step!
Unscrew the two Torx 30 screws:
2004
Pry off the airbag by putting your fingers behind the edge of the airbag:
2005
Disconnect the connector for the airbag:
2006
Set the airbag aside on a safe location (I set it on the back seat)

[MartinLarsen]

Step 3:
Disconnect the cruise control connector
2009
Make sure that the front wheels are pointing straight ahead! Then loosen the nut using the 17mm socket. Leave the nut sticking on with a few threads.
2008
Pull off the steering wheel, after this remove the nut and washers.
2010

[MartinLarsen]

Step 4:
Remove the steering column cover by unscrewing the 4 philips screws
2011
When removed, remove the clockspring from the steering column
2013
You can keep the clockspring from rotating with a piece of masking tape
2014

[MartinLarsen]

Step 5
Remove the lower dash cover to unveil the connectors for the combination switch
2015
Locate the zip tie style wiring holder holding the loom for the combination switch
2016
2017
Disconnect the 3 connectors shown in the picture below
2018
Remove the cruise / airbag loom from the combination switch loom (taped on with electricians tape)
2019

[MartinLarsen]

Step 6:
Remove the combination switch by removing the 2 screws
2020
Attach the new combination switch
2021
Line up the holes and install the screws
2022

[MartinLarsen]

Step 7:
Connect the wiring and put it back in the zip tie style holder
2023
Mount the clockspring
2025
Remove the tape from the clockspring
2026
Reattach the steering column covers
2027

[MartinLarsen]

Step 8:
Attach the lower dash cover
Attach the steering wheel and fish the wires to the airbag and cruise control through the wheel
2028
Place the washers and nut on the steering column
2029
Torque the nut to 34Nm (25.3 ft-lb)
2030
Reattach the airbag by connecting the connector and screwing in the 2 Torx 30 screws
2031
Reconnect the negative battery terminal and enjoy your adjustable wiper interval, as an added bonus; this mods enables the instrument light dimmer!
2032