QuestionQUESTION: The turn signals do not work but the hazard switch does. The wipers were working now they wont. The gauges quit working. Is it a problem with the ground? A problem with the fuses?
ANSWER: Hi Bruce. If it was only the turn indicators that stopped working, I would have suspected the hazard flasher switch. The fact that the gauges have stopped as well makes me think it is a line-fuse problem, although you could have 2 problems.
IS your car UK spec, USA or Canada? They are all different.
The UK spec. 79 MGB has a fuse box with 4 fuses, plus 2 extra line-fuses, one of which protects the following: Turn indicators, Heated rear window (if GT), Heater fan & Rev counter. Check it out. It might just be corrosion inside a line-fuse holder.
I am also aware of a very common problem with the hazard switch. Try operating the hazard switch a few times, and maybe everything will start to work again. If so, replace the switch as soon as you can.
That still leaves a problem with the wipers. Different circuit. Please let me know whether it was the line fuse or the hazard switch. If not, it might be the ignition relay.
Lucas was the Prince of Darkness, and I think wiring was his legacy to the world.
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QUESTION: The in line fuses were good so were the four under the cover. Everything worked when i started it up all the gauges and wipers turn signals, Later when i started it again everything was out. I notices when the seatbelt lite is not on everything does not work. I think it might be the ignition relay. Where is it located and where do i get the part?
AnswerHi Bruce,
It is possible that just checking a dodgy fuse can cause it to start working again. I would remove every fuse, clean them with emery cloth, check that the contacts inside the fusebox or fuse holder are clean, and re-insert them.
As regards the ignition relay, next time things don't work, open the driver's window and stand outside the car with your right hand holding the relay and your left hand operating the ignition key. Switch on and you should feel the relay click. Turn off, and it should click again. If your car is LHD you will need a helper to do this.
There are several relays by the fuse box. The one you are looking for has 5 different coloured wires going into 4 terminals. The colours are Black, Brown, 2 Whites joined together and White with a brown stripe. If you want a genuine relay, buy it from Moss. Any automotive relay with a mounting tag and 4 terminals will do the job.
