I'm replacing the turn signal switch, but have encountered a problem:

The turn indicator switch wiring connector is pretty haggard and won't come apart easily. At least not by using the method indicated in the shop manual (or Haynes, or Chilton) by using a paper clip or similar device.

I really don't want to stab a bunch of small tools in and start cranking, so is there any trick? As mentioned, the connector is pretty beat already and that's probably not helping things. HELP! Pics below.

 

OK, I got it apart The red tabs move toward the center and it came apart. Was not fun getting the wiring through the column...Tried the "rope" method, but that didn't work. Ultimately put each one through at a time and it worked just fine.

 

My original problem was no left rear blinker or brake light...running lights fine, and right side all lights OK. Front fine. There's no change with the turn signal switch install.

New light socket didn't cure it, either. These once went out in the old socket and I cleaned the contacts, then things worked fine.

So it's probably a ground issue. But, hey, I got a nice new turn signal switch!

I had attempted to locate any ground issues before, but aparently didn't find it. And I didn't use a multimeter or any useful tools like that...I know, I need to do that first.

But I have a question related to the TSS connector: Can I get this piece (both sides) anywhere new? The plastic horseshoe piece in the pictures. I've tried local Ford dealer, I can't pull up anything for FTE Guy link online, and neither O'Reilly's or CarQuest have anything. Same for NPD or LMC catalogs. Or RockAuto. Numerous searches on the FTE site and Google. I've really been trying.

I may need to go to a salvage yard. I believe mine is OK, but I'd really like to have something in better condition, especially since one of the wires (not related to the rear lights) is slipping out a bit because the two units won't fully close. Any sources?

 

I hope you bought the correct TSS, cuz 1978/79's used THREE different types. With Tilt Wheel ONLY (D8TZ13341A) / With A/T (D8TZ13341B) / With M/T (D8TZ13341C).

Did the switch you buy come with loose wires on the end or with the connector? If genuine Ford...with the connector.

FTE guy? No such thing. Originally known as FTEpartsguy (Ed Olson, parts manager of Parr Ford in Bremerton WA), but...

When Ed changed jobs last year, the new name is PARTSGUYED.COM (Ed Olson, parts manager of Horizon Ford in Seattle WA).

You can send your request to Ed, but I'll betcha since this is pre 1980's vehicle, he'll do what he usually does and...refer to question to someone else.

Guess who?

 

Good info, NumberDummy, thanks for taking a look. Yes, I got the names mangled!

I managed to get the connector fitting a bit better. Snug, but with the connectors not too loose.

I got the cheapish repro from RockAuto ($45) and it only came with the loose wires. Got the MT, knowing my truck came with that although the PO put in a three speed auto. When I took the TSS out it was OEM Ford (either the PO wasn't cheap like me or it was original.)

Now about the brake lights and turn signal. Bought a circuit tester to see about the wiring. At the tail light area the gound was good, but no power at the wire. Traced it back a bit under the bumper and still no power. (I make sure my ground for the tester was good by testing a known GOOD circuit, the rear lights.)

Next tried the wire (black/yellow) at the TSS. Got a light. Then after the connector, still worked. Checked under the hood and tested the wire as it left the firewall. Got a flashing light (obviously because it was after the flasher).

Suddenly I noticed that the rear bulb was working. Hmmmmm. I was fiddling with wires under the dash looking for the right one and must have bumped something. I'll work to clean what I can and hopefully avoid this in the future.

Lesson learned: Get a circuit tester before a new TSS. Trying a few selected grounds, a new bulb, or a new socket are all fine, but not the TSS.

Still it was an experience!

 

I just bought a 1973 F-100 and it is missing the turn signal switch. Also, the rear brake lights are not working. However, when I turn on the lights the parking lights and front hazard signals blink. I replaced the brake light switch bulbs and no change. Does anyone know if that circuit is run through the turn signal switch and when I reinstall that it should work? Just looking for a few suggestions.

 

Welcome to FTE

1973: There are two different turn signal switches.

D3TZ13341A .. TSS-Use with M/T / Available from Ford.

Fits: 1973/77 F100/350 & 1975/77 Econoline except all 1975/77's w/Speed Control.

MSRP: $96.00 // FTE Ford Dealer Parts Dept sponsor PARTSGUYED.COM price: $69.12.
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D3TZ13341B .. TSS-Use with A/T / Available from Ford.

Fits: 1973/77 F100/350 & 1975/77 Econoline, except all 1975/77's w/Speed Control.

MSRP: $69.98 // PARTSGUYED.COM price: $50.39.

 

Thanks for the welcome! The drive train in my F-100 is not original but it does have a 4spd manual transmission so I used the link you provided for that TSS assembly. The part that was broken seems to only be the plastic cancel cam, which the previous owner provided me with a replacement. So I am about to install that and see if it work.

 

I have to replace the TSS in my '75 w/ MT.
Will the TSS for an AT work?
Looks like the only difference is the shift light????
Thanks.

 

I do have a question for NumberDummy or anyone else that may know what the part number is and where to get the terminal connectors (male/female) that are inside of the connector illustrated above. Last year I replaced my TSS and when I fed the wires through, two of the end terminals were damaged. I had to cut and put a butt splice in for a temp fix and I would like to remove the splices and feed through the connector as required. Thank you in advance.

 

a really good place to find parts for these old fords is a place called bronco grave yard it's where I can find about anything and if u cant find it their they'll help u get whatever u need. Good luck man hope this helps

 

This thread is nearly ten years old, so I'd bet he got it figured out back then. Bronco Grave Yard is nothing new to FTE.