On the way home from work noticed that when putting the left blinker on that it no longer flashed on the dash or at the lens. Bulb is fine and works with parking lights and four-way flasher so the wiring is good. Also, dash indicator works when flashers are on. So only issue is that it doesn't work when left signal is applied. All other lights are fine. Does this mean that the multifunction switch that I have seen on this thread is the problem? Any idea how much these run and are they available at auto parts stores or is this a Ford only item? Thanks for any replies.....

 

1. Does this mean that the multifunction switch that I have seen on this thread is the problem?YES

2. Any idea how much these run and are they available at auto parts stores or is this a Ford only item? BOTH

They are called a TURN SIGNAL SWITCH at Autozone for about $44.99 WELLS part number SW264. They are a Online Availability ONLY.
Note switch numbers are different for tilt wheel and non.

 

Thanks. Since my truck is a 1988, I assume I have the traditional turn signal switch and not the sophisticated unit. Again, thanks for the reply.

 

I just fixed mine. someone had tried to fix it before replaced the muti function switch and in the process damaged the socket that plugs into the back of the multi function switch. the two clips that keep it locked on were snapped off, this happens sometimes if you are too aggressive in removing these types of plugs. In addition the wires are held in the socket with some small plastic stints that allow the wire end to be pushed into the socket and not removed unless you pry the stint back while pulling on the wire or if the stint breaks which was the case here. The switch had been replaced and yet no one checked the wires inserted in the socket. 3 were missing stints leaving them loose enough to dis-connect duriing certain steering wheel movements. when I tried to get a harness all that is offered is, what you had done... a pig tail. which means cutting the wires and adding in the "pigtail". I chose to fix the socket and not cut the wires. with some glue,silicone and robbing stints from the bare terminals in the socket, I was able to repair the harness and socket, all is fine now. with the black rtv in place to prevent the stints from ever breaking or falling out again. The rocking motion from the tilt wheel puts quite a stress on the harness. I wonder if your wires have pulled apart where joined or maybe your socket needs to be looked at real close. I dropped the whole column as assembled. it is VERY easy and would offer that as a suggestion to look at the whole assembly to see what is going on. remove the lower dash panel under the steering wheel and you will see that four studs are what retain the steering column. there is plenty of play to drop this down to reveal the harness as attache to the top of the column. Be sure to disconnect battery before you do this. I have heard the air bag could blow! also if you have not replaced the multi function switch already! now would be a great time to take it apart and clean it or put in a new one. good luck from now my blinkers work great!

 

Are you sure the left rear is on solid when this happens?

 

That is not correct. When placing the lever to the left turn position, the left rear light blinks normally. When I put the four-way flashers on, all four corners blink normally. When I put the parking lights on, all four corners are on. It is only the left front turn signal that has stopped blinking. Does that help?? Thanks.

 

Just double checking. I agree it must be in the steering column switch, or the steering column wiring plug is loose.