Turn indicator lever works only one side?

I had this problem in my 67 Barracuda in the early 90's, and replaced the turn signal switch in the steering column. It works like this if I remember right, there is little hook that keeps the signal on until a single tooth or a cam on a gear releases the hook, allowing the turn signal to turn off. I had to take my steering wheel off to replace the switch. After I did, the signal lever springiness was a bit better too. The part that breaks is the hook. The plastic gets brittle, the hook falls off and ends up on the floor or in the steering column. The part does NOT cost $19 anymore. =(