Well, I think I may be due for a new multi-function switch. My wiper blades have always been somewhat erratic, and now I've lost the functionality of my left turn signal. I can get the turn signal to work if I wiggle the switch a bit (sometimes accidentally kicking on my high beams).

My question to you guys... where can I find a new multifunction switch for a '97 XLT? I don't feel like braving taking the whole thing apart and trying to fix it. With my luck, I'd break it and have NO signals.

 

Its more than likely a dealer item only. You may be able to find one at a J/Y, but I'd go new.

 

Thanks Rev. I'll see what I can find around here as far as dealers.

 

here is one on ebay, says its new.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/95-98...em310033760357

 

before you start replacing why not try spraying some electronic cleaner in and see if that chases the gremlins away? i had the dreaded phantom wipers and washer syndrome and after i sprayed that sucker good the problems went away.
i used the stuff you can get at radio shack.

 

by "phantom wipers" do you mean they just start going full blast randomly?

 

Eh, part is already ordered (thanks schatten, I tried searching for "multifuntion switch"... didn't even occur to me that it would be called a "turn signal switch". Brain no worky today ) I figure it's been a while since I've given the truck some attention. Why not.

 

yes

 

hmm, well at least maybe you can take the old one apart and see the condition of things inside...maybe it's just really dirty... and you could clean it up and keep it as a spare or sell it...

 

Well, new switch arrived today. Took me about 20 minutes to install (most of that was finding tools and fuddling around with awkward angles). We'll see if she misbehaves now!

 

well i acted too slow, i was going to suggest the multi-pin connector that goes into it, mine was old and breaking, the little tabs that held the wires in were breaking, i think 2 wires were still held in?

so i paid a few bucks and got a new one of those...i would have suggested that before spending the money on the whole switch.

 

I was concerned about breaking apart those connectors (they are VERY good about keeping things from coming apart. Almost too good if you ask me). But they seemed solid to me. Got her buttoned up and made sure everything worked a second time. Just needs to be time-tested now.

 

great you got a good unit in and working. now how about take apart that old one and let us know what you find!!!

 

Already ahead of ya. Green oxidized copper, and lots of it. Pics to come shortly.

Good thing I bought a spare. I got the old one apart and cleaned, but that bastard will NOT go back together! I gave up after about 20 minutes of fighting with it.

*edit*

Finally got it back together! Had to turn it around and assemble it looking from the back. MUCH easier!

 

yep, that level of corrosion would certainly account for it not working...