So I've had this recurring problem...

Sometimes when I hit the left turn signal, I can hear the flasher ticking, but the indicator on the dash doesn't blink... The rear turn signal works when this happens, but the front doesn't...

It comes and goes... Maybe one day a week it will happen. Other days its fine all day.

I originally suspected a bulb problem, but its not...

I have found that wiggling the turn signal lever will cause it to work fine. And lately, I have to apply a bit of upward pressure, and then there is a slight click and it works...

Its almost like the signal lever is "over traveling" If you apply the signal gently it doesn't seemto happen as much. If you hit the signal with authority it tends not to work.

Ideas? I need to get myself a repair manual, as I have never pulled the signal mechanism apart on a newer vehicle... I've done it on older ones though, 60's & 70's trucks...

 

Yep, the turn signal switch assy is failing. There are a front and back outputs on the turn signal switch.

The instrument cluster turn indicators are driven off the front feed while the back ones are routed through the brake switch(dual function of stop and turn)

I haven't taken a 92 to 97 apart yet, but my friend says they are not too bad to get out. I recall he said its full of torex screws so you may want a set of them just in case.

 

Hmmm, ok. Well guess I'll have to start hunting down a new signal assy... Probably something I can only get from Ford? Or a used one from a wrecker I suppose... but then I'm taking a gamble if I go with a used one...

 

The switch is around $50 - 52 for a Motorcraft brand at Rockauto.com

MOTORCRAFT Part # SW5579

 

Most of the time you can just clean the contacts and it will work again for another 15 years.

They get this green stuff on them and you need to get it off and put some fresh grease on them.

The green stuff:


After cleaning:




/

 

WOW! I was expecting about $300-$400...

50 Bucks I can live with! Thanks!

 

Thanks I will try that first!

I had pondered the idea of just trying to clean it... It seems to be worse on damp days, and/or when it hasn't been driven for a while... I'll give that a shot!

Can anyone tell me what all has to be pulled apart to get it out?

Gotta pick up a Haynes manual this week

 

Got a similar problem on my '90 F150, let me know if better to start a new thread?

Brake lights are good.
Left side turn signals and dash indicator are good.
Right Rear turn signal works, Front Right signal not working and Right dash indicator not working.

The bulb is new/good, and the socket is new/good, and the flasher is new and I assume good because the back functions fine. According to the Chilton manual, the circuit goes: Multi-function switch>indicator>park/turn lamp>ground.

Thoughts?

 

Sounds like the exact same problem...

 

Yea, I was a bit surprised, but I think it may be different because Ive got the different, older style switch assembly? Might as well be worth just outright replacing, but expecting about $50-60 here too...

 

Sounds like that switch is greened up inside as its worse when damp. Definitely try cleaning it first, I would to save $$$ I don't have.

 

This R&R write-up for a Ford van should be the same for your truck: https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...res-added.html

 

That's what I was looking for... Much simpler than I had imagined...

Thanks!!!

 

Well, Subford nailed it...



Got her cleaned up:



One last question... What kind of grease was on there from the factory? Do I use the same, or something better?

Will pick some up tonight, get it back in tomorrow, and hopefully no more signal issues!

 

I would think a very very light coating of dielectric grease.