Vintage Speedster turn signal issue, location of flasher, relay

On a Vintage, the flasher is usually "glued" onto the top of the steering column, just behind the dash, with a dab of silicon caulk.

That's where mine is.

Doug - what Gordon said! I got a replacement at Pep Boy's. I got one that was described on package as '5x louder than standard' (so I can hear & see my turn indicator on dash panel). Easy peasy! 

Thanks guys

I did see that above the column. I guess if it is glued on you just twist it off? Will any 12v flasher with the right connections work? I would imagine one for a beetle would do.

Usually when a flasher goes, or a bulb is out, the (good) light will light up. This doesn't happen but it is worth the cost of a flasher to eliminate that as a possibility. Perhaps I can cross the leads on the flasher and see if the lights work.

I will let you know if it works. I still think it may be a bad connection somewhere. I find electrical problems very mysterious.

Thanks again

Doug

Flashers now come in MANY different types.....   But yes, a standard Beetle 3 prong unit should work if your unit is a 3 prong type...

Flasher is a good and cheap place to start and might solve your problem completely. Next step is to remove the bulbs and check for rust and corrosion on the contacts. Water will find it's way in there in spite of the seals.  While you are checking the bulbs, make sure there is a good solid ground.  I predict you will have your turn signals working in no time.

Be aware, though, that the flasher does only that - switches the current on and off to the directional light switch and THAT's where it makes the different lamps light.  However if you only have one light out it could be burned out or have a corroded + connection or a bad ground.....   Just be persistent and you'll find it - these cars are very simple and easy to figure out.

Thanks again,

When the lights work they are nice and bright, something I am not used to with all the 6V "real" Speedsters and other 356's I have owned over the years.

I will try the flasher first and let you guys know if that solved it.

Doug

Thanks to all that replied, it was the flasher. I bought a new one at Advance Auto for about six bucks and it seems to work fine.

The original had only two connection tabs so that is what I used. Sometimes the easiest solution is the best.

Now if only I can get the carburetors sorted out....

Thanks again guys.