Spridget Tech Talk (MG Midget & Austin-Healey Sprite)
My signals will come on but will not flash.
The hazards work correctly. How do the two systems work together?
I replaced the flasher. I knew this wouldn't fix the problem because it didn't have any voltage going to it but it's a cheap part.
Someone before me has done a complete rewire under the dash.
Thanks in advance
If the signal lamps do come on when the lever is moved to one postion or the other but don't flash that means that the switch and wiring from there out to the lamps is ok. Since the hazard flasher works and the lamps flash in that mode that means the laps are ok. What's left? The power to the directional switch comes from the fuse block through the hazard switch an to the flasher for the directional signals, from there it goes to the switch and through the switch to the lamps. Most flashers work on the principle of a bending bi metalic contact that bends as heated to break contact and then straightens when cooled to restore contact.
That takes a certain amount of current. That's the reason that usually if a lamp is burned out that side won't flash, not enough current to heat up the flasher. In your case I'd think that about the only thing left would be a bad connection causing the current to be reduced enough to keep the flasher from working. I'd check the main connector from the steering column to the main harness and make sure the connections there are clean and don't show any signs of overheating. If those are good then a quick check of the connections at the flasher and then I'd consider a new switch on the steering column.
Bill
Thanks
Your help sent me in the right direction.
The previous wiring was incorect. With your help I was able to rewire and they are flashing like it's 1970.
Thanks Again
I had the same issue and found the contacts inside the switch were carbonized. Took about 15 minutes to get it off the steering column, clean and reinstall. Be careful as there are some small balls that give the switch its stop positions so go slow when you open it up. I used a scotchbrite pad to get the contacts shiny again. Apply some Dielectric grease on the newly cleaned contacts to keep them that way. I use Dielectric grease on every contact, bulb and connector I clean on my LBC and knock on wood haven't had the Prince of Darkness along for a ride yet. Crap, why did I have to say that out loud! My son and I are taking the Midget to the scout meeting tonight.
