| The turn signal switch is very
often misunderstood as to how it
operates. The turn signal switch does
more than operate your turn signals. It
operates the horns, brake lights, and
emergency flashers as well. For those who
are electrically inclined or just would
like to understand how the turn signals
work, below is an explanation of the
operation of the turn signals. When
viewing the drawings, think of the turn
signal switch oriented where the lever is
pointing straight up and the switch is on
it's side. As you can see, there are
multiple points where age or corrosion
may cause improper operation of any of
the circuits. Also
notice that the circuit for the brake
lights goes through the turn signal
switch. The brighter bulb element is used
for both the brake lights and the turn
signals. This is how the circuit for the
emergency flashers works, using the
existing brake light circuit contained in
the switch. It's important that the turn
signal switch be in good condition for
the brake lights to operate properly. If
the switch is worn, sometimes the actual
weight of the lever can make the switch
break the circuit for the left brake
light but not quite connect the flasher
circuit for that turn signal. This
happens often and can confuse many an
owner or mechanic in trying to learn why
the left brake light won't work properly.
A new turn signal switch does wonders for
the overall operation of turn signals,
horns, brake lights and emergency
flashers.
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