86 FLHTC turn signal problem?

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Apr 22, 2018 | 06:33 PM

elmo4fun

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Joined: Apr 2014

Posts: 81

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From: upstate NY

86 FLHTC turn signal problem?

so... a couple of weeks ago i picked up an 86 FLHTC. ive been slowly doing work on it, making it mine, and sorting out issues that i find. the latest im not sure if its an issue or just how they are. the turn signals dont flash when the engine is not running (ignition on). when running they flash fairly slow. is this a flasher issue? or something else? or is this just how it is? im planning down the road to install a load manager and LED turn signals, but for now i need the stock stuff to work to pass inspection.

Apr 23, 2018 | 12:36 AM

Mr. Mike

Road Captain

Joined: Apr 2010

Posts: 688

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From: Central Utah

Doesn’t sound right to me. I’d spring for a new flasher module as they’re not that expensive.

Apr 23, 2018 | 08:57 AM

bagga

Elite HDF Member

Joined: Mar 2006

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From:

auto parts store #552 flasher will work.

Apr 23, 2018 | 03:03 PM

grbrown

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Joined: Jun 2007

Posts: 45,429

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From: Bedford UK

Your bike is thirty years old, so there may be a few age-related things causing problems. They can include any or all of the following:

corrosion in the bulb housings, so remove bulbs and if in any doubt replace with new,
poor ground at any or all light fittings,
corrosion in any of the wiring connectors - detach, clean and refit,
clean and refit wire connectors at the flasher unit.

You get the picture! In addition to the above, it sounds as if your bike starts OK, but the battery isn't giving a lot of power when not running. So in addition to the above disconnect both ends of both main battery cables, clean and refit - use dialectric grease to keep out the damp. Let us know how you get on.

Also be aware that we have a dedicated Evo section, where you can meet up with fellow owners.

Apr 23, 2018 | 04:18 PM

81rat

Road Warrior

Joined: Jul 2016

Posts: 1,370

Likes: 439

From: va

grbrown is correct in every way

PLUS

GROUNDS H-D uses 18ga wire --way to small , over the years your bike is " Losing Ground "
A test-- run jumper wires from housing of bulbs to "NEG " post on bat -- see what happens
If your T/S are mounted on fiberglass saddle bags then ADD more ground wire to the lamps
Also chrome is NOT a good conductor of ground

Apr 23, 2018 | 06:27 PM