Jaguar Repair: XJ6 SIII Turn Signal Issues, dad gum, indicator bulbs

Question
Bought an '86 XJ6 S-III last year, runs great (152K) and the only main problem I'm having is the dad-gum turn signals. They operate on the outside of the car, but I have no dash turn indicators (though I've replaced the bulbs inside). My second issue is now the Left-turn is flashing fast (like a blown bulb) but after I replaced them with NEW bulbs (7505 & 7528) there is no change [RT side is fine]. Could you please point me in the right direction for diagnosing? I have the Haynes (crappy) manual and racking my head as to where to look specifically.

v/r

SSG USArmy

Answer
Hi Srg,
The flasher operates by resistance meaning that when there is low resistance (good connection) the flasher element heats up quickly and disconnects (quick flash) and when there is a poor connection (high resistance) it takes time for the element to heat up thus the flash gets slower. The two indicator lights are in the same circuit as the power to the turn signal lights so they can be a factor.

First I would switch the right bulbs with the left bulbs to see if the new bulbs are a different Wattage. (different resistance)

The fact that the indicator lights are not working may indicate a problem with the hazard/turn flasher unit as that is what grounds the indicator bulbs. One other factor involved is that the power from the turn signal circuit each have a Diode in the harness going to each indicator bulb.

After the bulb-switch to see if the flash speed is due to Wattage. Check for power in the indicator socket connectors with it's turn signal turned on. If you have power there check for a ground at the "C" terminal on the flasher (double green w/brown tracer wires) Also check the flasher switch (most are broken) The hazard/turn flasher is on the left side of the Main fuse panel. Also check to see that terminal "31" on the flasher is a good ground.

If you don't have a good diagram of the Hazard/turn system let me know and I will put one on my web site for you to copy.

Howard
Pvt. 4th inf. 3rd Div. US Army (57-59)