C1 Directional Signal Cancellation

[John L.]

In order to fix a problem in my 62 where the brake lights on one side or the other wouldn't work without playing with the directional lever, I just replaced the electrical switch and cancellation switch. I lubricated all the parts so that everything would slide easily. Now I have a problem that when I put the switch in a turn position it immediately slides back to the neutral postion. I'm assuming that the system doesn't depend on friction to hold position, which would be a poor design, but I'm at a loss to find another cause. I would appreciate help from anyone familiar with this system.

[Pat #25912]

Re: C1 Directional Signal Cancellation

John, if you figure it out please let me know. I have been having trouble with one brake light (only works after moving the signal switch arm) and figure the problem to be in the signal switch as well. Tomorrow I plan to pull the steering wheel and have a look. Pat

[Art B.]

Re: C1 Directional Signal Cancellation

John:
I just finished working on my '57 and '61 turn signals. The cancelling switch arms have notches that should keep the turn signal activated until the cancelling pins release them. You may have lubricated them too much or else the cams are not engaging the notch correctly.

[Pierre J.]

Re: C1 Directional Signal Cancellation

I've had a similar problem on my '56. Turned out I had a binding problem (sluggish) with the actuating cam that was caused by the steering hub being "out of round". Replace it with a good used one and the problem was fixed.

Pierre

[Art B.]

Re: C1 Directional Signal Cancellation

John:
I think the only way you will know what's happening in there is to pull the steering wheel again and check the mechanism. In your case, you also may want to see if the screw holding the cancelling cam switch is snug enough. I would think that if it was too loose, you might have trouble with it cancelling too soon. There needs to be a little friction on the cancelling switch.

[John L.]

Re: C1 Directional Signal Cancellation

Thanks for your input. I found the hub which holds the cancellation switch to be slightly oval which prevented the switch to travel far enough to engage the cam. I lengthed the cam slot by about 1/32 inch and it snaps in and works perfectly.
Pat- The power for the brake lights runs through the signal switch. Its setup to shut off the brake lights when the turn signals are operating. Therefore I would guess your problem is that the switch doesn't return to neutral position after a signal is made or you have a bad switch.