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Classic/Antique Car Repair/No turn signal 1959 Rambler

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Expert: - 3/28/2009


Question

Hi Brad,

I have just bought a 1959 Rambler with a 196 LE six cylinder and the turn signals do not work. How do I troubleshoot and or fix this problem?

Thank you in advance for your help

Answer
The first check is the fuse. If the fuse is good then with a test light check for voltage at the flasher socket with the lasher removed. There should be voltage at one terminal of the socket with the ignition key on and none with the key off. If there is voltage run a jumper wire between the two terminals of the flasher socket. Then turn on the key and turn the directional switch to either right or left. If the lights on that side come on steady then the switch and all the bulbs are ok and the flasher is defective. If the lights do not come on check the bulbs and sockets. If still nothing the probability of a defective turn signal switch is high.
Brad

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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