Triumph Repair: turn signal trafficator, trafficator, tracer wire

Question
QUESTION: Just repaired steering column bushings. Broke trafficator when refitting. Can I assume that this piece provides a ground, because signals no longer work without it. Thanks for prior help with flexible steering coupler assembly.

ANSWER: Hi Tom,
What kind of Triumph is this?
Howard

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Sorry I skipped this. It's a 1972 TR6. I thought this clip's only function was to cancel the turn signal.

Thanks...Tom

Answer
Tom, What item are you calling a "Trafficator"? Are you talking about the piece on the shaft that cancels the switch?
The three wire switch is just a switch and does not require any outside ground. The switch only routs current from the feed wire (light green w/brown tracer)to either the left lights (green w/red tracer) wire. or to the right side lights (green w/white tracer)wire. The warning light is connected between the two side light wires so it is activated when either side is powered.

You can see all this in your wiring diagram and is easily tested with a 12v test light. You should first check for power from the 4 way flasher switch (hazard switch) (light green w/brown tracer)

If you don't have a diagram, let me know and I will post one on my web site for you to copy.
Howard