QuestionQUESTION: I just bought a 1975 midget as my first 'project car' and for the LIFE of me, I can't figure out why the turn signals won't work. In fact, I can't even find the flasher to replace it. What the heck am I missing?
ANSWER: Hi Kit. Nine times out of ten, if the flashers don't work but everything else is ok, then the problem lies within the hazard warning switch. This switch is seldom used, so it corrodes internally. I suggest that you operate the hazard switch to check that all 4 turn indicators flash, plus both of the repeaters on the dashboard. That will check out all the circuits together. Operate the switch a few times to clean the internal connections. You may well find that the turn indicators now work again. If the turn indicators become unreliable, working sometimes but not always, then you must fit a new hazard switch.
If this doesn't cure the problem, get back to me, preferably with some more symptoms. Check that EVERYTHING electrical still works. For example, the turn indicators share the same fuse as the heater blower, so is that still working?
I strongly recommend that you purchase a Workshop Manual for the Sprite & Midget. There is a whole section on electrics, including the territorial modifications for the USA.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Ok. The hazard switch didn't solve the issue. It's shot. Additional symptoms: The TACH and Oil/Temp gauge work just fine. The Speedometer and the fuel gage do not work at all. I assumed they they just needed to be replaced, but I though I would mention it. Headlights work, all tail lights and side markers work (except turn signals). The wipers don't work, but that is a bad wiper switch, I know that already.
Can't tell you about the heater blower because this doesn't have one. I ordered a workshop manual from Moss Motors but it hasn't arrived yet...
Thanks for your help. I am very perplexed.
AnswerHi Kit. You just gave me the information I needed.
The turn indicators will not work because the hazard switch is shot. The hazard switch is a complicated device that interrupts the normal turn indicator circuits. My guess is that, once you fit a new hazard switch, the turn indicators will then work normally.
The fuel gauge is wired via a voltage stabilizer. That probably needs to be replaced. Bypass the stabilizer to check if the gauge is OK. They rarely go wrong.
The speedo is mechanical. If it isn't working, the problem is NOT electrical. It probably just needs a new cable.
