After confirming the indicator "module" is working, the indicators didn't. Asking the great internet for thoughts, a couple of options were provided
- Take apart the hazard switch and clean it
- Replace the flasher unit.
Decided to clean up the hazard switch.
The Dash Panel
It turns out, of the three Triumphs I own, this is one of the easier to get switches out of.
Two regular screws hold the panel, and then, using a panel pry tool, I simply disengage from the dash. The harness connectors were a bit of a fight; I don't think they have been touched since they were first assembled.
There are supposed to be two speed nuts; this one had one. Off it comes.
The Switch
The general condition looks good...
You can pry off the outer casing. Be very careful. On examination, I notice a small crack in the corner.
The Guts of the Matter
Once that is off, the "switch head" can be pried off. Lift very gently the side tabs, and the head comes off. Be very careful, there are spring-loaded actuators. Now, more than likely, they are gummed up and stuck.
Now, looking at the base, the contacts are all gummed up.
The top contact lifts off
This needs a cleaning!
The base contacts need a good clean as well. A little parts cleaner, a scotch-brite pad, and a couple of Q-tips make the contacts all clean again.
The same for the bridge contact plate.
Remove the actuators from the head and clean them thoroughly. These are really small. They had lots of buildup. So, lots of rubbing between the fingers and a cloth
Just built up gunk and cleaned the inside of the head with a Q-tip. Reassembled with some dielectric grease to hold them together
Some Assembly
The actuator plate is not bidirectional. There is one connection point, and thankfully, I took reference pictures LOL
Again, more dielectric grease here. Then, to put the head back on
Testing and Final Assembly
I wanted to make sure it worked before putting the outer frame back on, as it had a crack, and I wanted to ensure it needed to be put back on only once.
The hazards still work, and work even better. Good strong 'blink'. But the indicator is still not working. Now, the bulbs are on, the indicator in the dashboard is on, and the lights themselves are on. This is a step in the right direction.
Time to move on to the next piece in the line. After cleaning the outside of the switch with some polishing compound to remove dirt, etc, it is ready for service again.
Don't forget the grease on the pins as well.
Wrap-Up
Today’s work: tore down, cleaned, and tested the hazard switch to ensure it is not the reason for the failing indicators
Key takeaway: this switch is a key part of the indicators, and 40+ years of grease and guck cause issues. Remove one of the tools used by the Prince of Darkness
Next steps: I guess tracking down the flasher unit that can be either near the steering column or the choke handle assembly. Pull the steering column cover apart and clean the various lever stalk contacts
No comments:
Post a Comment