Thanks for the reply Simon.
Yes I have studied that "Tutorial" and can see no reason for insulating the springs. The BMC Service Parts List AKD688 shows no insulating washers. In fact my horn ring was modified in this way and did not work except by forcing the spokes of the chrome plated part down onto the steering wheel center.
My horn ring now works as follows :-
The relay coil current path passes up the steering column via wire 33 to the center contact and when depressed via the horn ring contact and springs to chassis earth.
The parts list does show what looks like a grommet which could perhaps sit inside the springs and stabilize them. I wonder if the remains of this part could have caused confusion.
Geoff.
