I have a problem with the left front turn signal on my Ultra Classic. It blinks normally four times and then goes to rapid blinking, like a car does when a bulb is burned out.

All four turn signals' bulbs are working, but at the suggestion of another rider, I switched them around and tried all four bulbs in the problem turn signal - it did not fix the problem.

If I take the bulb out and put it back in repeatedly, sooner or later the problem goes away. But, within a few days, it comes back again. I've sprayed the contacts in the turn signal socket and on the base of the bulb with electrical contact cleaner, but the problem persists.

Does anyone have any thoughts or suggestions on what this might be and how to fix it?

Thanks!

 

I have only found a couple others that agree but mine does that when it has a code stored. Probably a turn signal code. I would check for codes and go from there.

 

Sounds weird, I guess I'd try the cheap fix first and trace down the harness connectors, giving each a pull and twist to see if there's a bad connect there.
Then if that don't do it I'd replace all 4 bulbs, could be something hincky inside a bulb you can't see

 

You’ve tried some good things. I would check the function of each socket by pressing down on the contacts to check the springs. Does each spring loaded contact return to its fully extended position when you release the spring or does it get stuck a little ****-eyed?

I would also use dialectic grease on the contacts. In addition to preventing corrosion & fretting it helps in making a better contact.

If that didn’t work I would replace all of the bulbs — you could have an intermittent bulb failure — they are cheap at Wallmart. Get the ones with part numbers ending in “LL” signifying heavy duty / vibration resistant.

 

Change the relay.

 

Is water getting into the housing? Check for corrosion in the electrical connections.

 

if all wiring, contacts (bulb socket and switches), and bulbs have been eliminated try disconnecting the battery and cleaning terminals. Also, how old is the battery.
If it's a newer bike everything is electronically controlled and voltage is important.
Also a simple fix for bulb/contact issues is to level/clean the two contacts on bulb with some 200 sand paper, lightly scratch a "#" mark on the socket contacts with an o ring pick, apply di-electric grease and reinstall.