My 2004 f150 4wd horn suddenly began sounding. I pulled fuse under hood to get home.
I also found that my cruise control did not work. That told me that the problem was in the steering wheel, and that meant the clockspring.
Battery disconnected and airbag removed safely.
That T50 torx bolt was really tight - impact to remove it.
A 2-jaw puller used in attempt to pull the steering wheel.
Picture shows the results.
The T50 bolt was lossened several turns and used for the puller to press against the shaft.
Has anyone encountered this? And if so, how did you remove the steering wheel?
Any suggestions?
thanks,,
dave

ouch.

 

Well I did not receive any suggestions, so plan B.
I drilled and tapped the steering wheel frame about 1 inch either side of the Torx bolt - 3/8-16 tap.
A carbide bit works best in the aluminum casting.
A piece of strap steel drilled to match - 2 3/8 bolts, and a small socket under the strap on top of the torx bolt.
I gave it a shot of penetrating oil, and after tightening the bolts, I still had to use an impact hammer to finally break it loose.
Two bolt holes across the center is the way old steering wheels used to be pulled. I attached some pics.

The clockspring was actually in very good shape, and was re-installed as it was not the problem.
Going back to the horn button, which is within the airbag module, I found that there was continuity between the 2 wires.
The horn was always on.
Hindsight: I should have tested the horn button circuit first. No need to assume it was the clockspring, and remove the steering wheel.
I hope this helps someone else. Don't assume it is the clockspring.

drilled and tapped

one 3/8 bolt

puller in place