Turn Signals - Work sometimes

[Tom Bahner]

Hey Guys, my 63 SDV with tilt steering, turn signals are intermittent. The Right turn signal works every time its engaged but the ratchet does not turn it off after making the turn.

The Left turn signal doesn't always work. Its like the lever never engages the switch or something. Sometimes it works perfectly. I haven't figured out the scenario that makes it work. All turn signal lights and turning lights work as they should.

Is there an adjustment on the switch or something under the steering wheel that needs adjustment? Not sure which end to attack this thing at and what to look for. Have read through all the posts on turn signals but haven't found anything that deals with this particular problem. 

Kinda frustrating, would like them to work all the time.

Thanks for any suggestions.

Tom B

[Jason Edge]

Did you adjust the switch to make sure it is in correct position on cable? I would remove, clean out, working back and forth with a cleaner lubricant (like the tuner lube spray radio shack sells) and reinstall making sure it is in proper alignment. At least switch is easy to get to on column and will be a good chance to clean contacts and make sure short jumper connector is making good contact on the switch end and the dash harness end.

Below is a picture of the external switch and short jumper harness. If not in this area and left side is completely going out (front, rear, and indicator on fender) and sure it is not in wiring you will probably want to pull the steering wheel and look at the turn signal actuator yoke and assembly and observe the movement of the Bowden cable. I have seen the bracket that secures the Bowden cable at top of the column (red arrow in 2nd picture) break meaning the cable is loose and not pushing and pulling the external switch properly.

[Tom Bahner]

Thanks guys. I think you're right, something isn't making contact. Its worked the last half dozen times, so if luck would have it, maybe it will fix itself with use. My luck doesn't usually run that way though. Just wanted to know  whether to start at the top or bottom

Tom B

[Jason Edge]

There is adjustment in the externally mounted bowden cable fed turn signal switch in terms of positioning it on the column. See the 1963 Tilt Column Addendum under the Literature tab in header, pull up the addendum, and go to page 9.