Turn Signal Problem in Steering Column

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Mar 16, 2008 | 05:30 PM

jsg203

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Joined: Sep 2007

Posts: 4

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Turn Signal Problem in Steering Column

When I put my right turn signal on, the light on the dash blinks very fast and the rear bulb does not blink. I replaced the bulb. And it still blinks fast, rear bulb stills does not blink. I replaced the Fuse, same result. After playing around with the position of the turn signmal lever it seems that if I manually hold it in a certain position the turn signal will work. Because this is very annoying I want to fix it. I believe it must be something with the connection in the steering column. I wondering if anyone else has had the same problem or what I am getting into by taking off the steering column. Any advice would help.

Also, I have a rattle underneath the drivers/passengers seat. It almost sounds like a muffler cover or something to do with the cat. It only rattles at 1100 rpms and 2100 rpms while driving...it does not rattle when idling. Any suggestions?

Mar 16, 2008 | 05:57 PM

PSD4ME

Junior User

Joined: Jan 2008

Posts: 71

Likes: 0

From: Northern Ontario, Canada

Souds like you need a new turn signal if manually holing it a certain way make it work. As for your rattle, have you crawled under and visually checked everything. If everything looks okay try wiggling and shaking everything in the general area of the noise and see if you get a similar sound.
BTW, make sure its cooled off before you start grabbin at stuff.

Mar 16, 2008 | 07:19 PM

Rongold

Elder User

Joined: Dec 2004

Posts: 819

Likes: 3

From: Putnam Valley, New York

Signal Problem

If it works when you hold the handle in just the right position, then the switch is bad. It is called "the multi-function" switch. It controls the signals, the wipers, and the bright/dim function of the headlamps. It's not too hard to replace. Just remove the steering column covers, and there are 2 screws (usually torx head) that hold the switch to the steering column. It's usually harder to remove the connectors than to replace the switch. The switch is available from the aftermarket and your Ford dealer.

RON

Mar 16, 2008 | 08:07 PM

F350-6

Post Fiend

Joined: Mar 2007

Posts: 26,966

Likes: 50

From: Texas

Welcome to FTE. As Ron mentioned above, changing the switch is easy. Get a phillips screwdriver and remove the 3 screws under the steering column cover. Unscrew you're tilt wheel lever and the bottom half of the column cover just drops off. The upper half unsnaps from the lower half. Then unplug the wires, remove and replace your switch, and put the steering column cover back on.