<VV> turn signal puzzle-reply

[NicolCS@aol.com]

Bob, it sounds like your turn signal switch isnt moving properly and since 
you feel no center position, it's more likely in the control mechanism in the 
hub rather than the switch itself.

In a '63, the switch is mounted on the lower part of the steering column and 
is operated by a cable that connects it to the wheel hub area.  There's a 
mechanism in the hub that provides the up, middle, and down detents and it handles 
the "cancelling" function.  The mechanism also pushes and pulls a small cable 
to operate the electrical switch on the lower column.  Slotted holes on the 
switch allow it to be adjusted to "center" so that the signal lights are "off" 
and both brake-lamp contacts are engaged when the lever is in the center 
position.  If the hub mechanism or cable fails, the switch no longer centers 
properly and either stop lights don't work properly or one of the signal lamps 
malfunctions.

Since you report no center detent, it's likely that the "W" spring in the hub 
(the middle groove of the "W" is the center detent) is broken or the pin that 
rides in the "W" is no longer engaged in it.  There are half a dozen 
pot-metal parts in the upper hub that can wear and cause this problem.  You will have 
to pull the steering wheel and take a look.
Before you do that though, take a look at the switch.  It's possible that you 
could adjust it a little and get it to center so the signal lamp goes off.  
This won't fix your problem but it's a start.  You will still have to have the 
mechanism in the hub repaired.
Craig Nicol
<snip>my left turn signal is on, won't shut off (unless ign is off), and now 
my left
brake light seem to be inop.  flasher in car (purchased in mar 04) is numbered
142, have tried new flasher from napa, didn't work at all, was informed it is
electronic and needs setting, bought cheaper one for 1.50 and now right turn
signal is on but won't go off. turn lever seems to not have any center-just
down and up. books say nothing, anyone with ideas???  thanks bob <unsnip>