self cancelling turn signal, hi beam assembly

newBDR · #1 (**permalink**) 01-12-2005, 11:49 AM

Anyone having problems with this assembly on their BDR? I don't like it. The set screw that holds the assembly on the steering column won't stay tight so the whole thing rotates as I turn the wheel, or if I'm not extra gentle while putting on a turn signal. I'd like to replace it with 3 dash mounted switches of some kind. Any ideas? Anyone change it out for a different solution?

davidlee · #2 (**permalink**) 01-12-2005, 12:03 PM

new BDR,
I had to replace my turn signal switch {it would not activate the lights} but have had no trouble with it getting loose. Have you tried putting a drop of loctite on the threds of the screw then tighten it up?

David

Secret Squirrel · #3 (**permalink**) 01-12-2005, 02:10 PM

NewBDR,

I had a problem with the self-cancelling part, but not with a loose assembly. I did notice a few items that may help you while I was working on my steering wheel and turnsignal assembly. My set screw tightens up enough to hold the turnsignal in place without spinning.

Make sure that the turnsignal assembly is far enough back toward the dash so the set screw grabs the steering column. Also that the assembly will clear the rear of the streering wheel.

As for the self-cancelling part, I had to add an R/C airplane wheel collar to the strike pin on the steering wheel and add a little grease to the turnsignal arm behind the snap ring so it would return to neutral. There is a pic in my gallery of the wheel collar.

If you ever have to take apart the turnsignal assembly be VERY CAREFUL. There is a large spring and some sensor tabs that need to be put back into place very carefully with a small screwdriver. Its kinda tricky.

If davidlee's suggestion doesn't work, then you might try re-tapping threads to the next size and install new set screw. The assembly is aluminum, so use the proper thread locker.

HTH

uncltodd · #4 (**permalink**) 01-12-2005, 04:48 PM

The turn signals are a cruel joke on BDR # 139.

Give me input or talk to my lawyer.

Yeah, it's that bad.

UT

Boudy · #5 (**permalink**) 01-13-2005, 12:47 PM

The turn signal is of VW origion and is a little tempermental. It could also be, and has been, called a cruel joke if not adjusted properly.

If not self cancelling properly, it must be taken apart and re-assembled correctly. What happens is that when it is assembled, the darn little pieces don't stay in place and it goes together wrong. It takes me multiple tries to get it done every time I've done it, but it is doable.

The set screw should and usually stays tight. I'd first place locktight on the threads. If for some unheavenly reason that doesn't work, I'd mark the end of the screw and tighten it up. This will subsequently leave a mark on the column. The take a small drill and make a dimple in the column. All in all, it shouldn't twist then even if it gets loose.

Boudy

newBDR · #6 (**permalink**) 01-13-2005, 02:21 PM

I'll try all that but do you have any info on the wiring scheme, colors, etc. for each control in case I want to replace with switches?

Boudy · #7 (**permalink**) 01-13-2005, 06:22 PM

Hmmm... Talk to Reg before you try to change it out. However, I don't recommend it.

Boudy

Trueoo7 · #8 (**permalink**) 01-13-2005, 07:27 PM

I have the exact same problem, the whole turn signal mount moves. I think that I have tightened it so much that there is now actually a groove in the column underneath the set screw. My set screw is on the top and close to the edge which makes it very hard to get to. (body is in the way) Not looking forward to taking it apart.

Trueoo7

brainbugnj · #9 (**permalink**) 01-14-2005, 09:11 PM

I have the same issue... I am going to email reg and see what I can do, I think @ this point I have actually stripped the set screw.... it sucks, I don't like it @ all... I would like to get a replacement and then I will drill a set dimple for it...

Boudy - have you had to replace one of these before, does it suck?

Steve

Boudy · #10 (**permalink**) 01-19-2005, 10:03 AM

Replacing the unit is not a nightmare. Taking it apart to tinker with the self cancelling part is where it gets tricky. I have replaced a couple. They are old technology so it's not surprising to replace one here and there.

Boudy

brainbugnj · #11 (**permalink**) 01-19-2005, 12:28 PM

Should I give Reg a call to get a replacement?

or is there somewhere else I can grab one?

Boudy · #12 (**permalink**) 01-20-2005, 07:46 AM

Yea, just call Reg. He'll either have one or tell you where to get one.

Boudy