Indicator Problems

[macpherson]

Hi there, I've searched the forums but can't find any posts which answer this specific problem.

The rear right indicator on my 1150GS has stopped working. I have swapped the lamp part with ones which I know work fine, but still no joy. When hazards are on, all 3 others flash. When the right indicator is on, only the front one flashes, but at double rate.

Using my elementary knowledge of multimeters I think I have approx 5V across the wires to the rear right indicator, pulsing in time with the front indicator flashing.

The lights are all standard bulbs, not LEDs. Any ideas what might be causing the problem?

Thanks in advance.

 

[sproggy]

A broken wire is more likely than a partial short circuit, but in either case you need to follow the wire from relay to rear indicator and find where it's broken and/or the insulation is worn through. Also check any connectors (and the bulb holder itself) for corrosion - that will have the same effect.

 

[macpherson]

Cheers for that, I'd not really thought beyond relay and bulb problems. I'm obviously not an electrician!

Would a partial break or an exposed wire touching another metal object cause the low voltage at the lamp end? I would have expected 12V.

 

[macpherson]

Wahey, found the problem!

The indicator and rear light wires under the rear seat tool tray are all connected by a bundle of spade connectors. One wire came out of a spade connector as I lifted them up, and on reconnecting it, the indicator works! I now want to get all the wires tidied up and connected with something a little better.

Thanks.