Topic: 1977 CB 550K3 Turn Signal Problem

[Boggins550]

Hey guys,

I've got the bike listed above and I'm having a problem with my turn signals.  When you push the switch a little either R or L, both turn signals work fine.  When you lock the switch into the position where it holds itself, the turn signals will come on and stay in the on position and NOT flash.  I have taken apart and cleaned the switch, checked all wiring and grounds, and replaced the flasher unit in the fuse panel.  Is there something maybe I have missed?  I could use some help here and by the way, I'm a new member and I think these forums are awesome.  I could spend hours here!  Thank you in advance for the help.

Erik

[bender01]

I think if a bulb is bad that can happen but you say it does flash when using the passing switch? Try moving the bulbs around.

[Boggins550]

All the bulbs are brand new, as are the turn signal units themselves.  I built this bike from scrap, and there were no turn signals on it when I bought it.  The "flash to pass" works just fine, it's just when you push it all the way over into the locked position that it just lights, and doesn't flash. 

[TwoTired]

Lot's of threads on this topic.

There are different flasher types and different wattage ratings for bulbs.  These can effect flash rate or even whether they flash at all.

Further, if the battery voltage is low, the flasher won't heat enough to break it's connection for the flash cycle. (assuming you have that type of flasher).

So, you need to report the bulb wattage, the flasher type, and the battery voltage, before moving on to possible ground issues or wiring errors.

Cheers,

[OldSchool_IsCool]

When you test your flash, is the bike running?  Does it work correctly above 3000 RPM?

[73hutch]

my 77' 550 does the exact same thing. i've tried to troubleshoot it, but no luck. let me know if you come up with something.

[Kalamazoo]

yup same problem with my 77 CB 550 also, have yet to figure anything out. Engine work comes first.

[73hutch]

hmmm. it's starting to sound like a conspiracy.

[noose74]

i had the same sorta gremlins on my 76 550..eventually i just bought a generic flasher at the local auto parts store and it fixed it. blinks like a champ now..it was like 3 or 4 buck...the honda flasher have to have the same load balanced on all bulbs or somethig very finicky..everything must be perfect...with the generic flasher it just worked...good luck!

[Redman]

 A few years ago I worked on a friends Shadow Spirit. Had same problem. I practicly tore the bike apart looking for the cause. I did a search on net and a guy from the U.K. suggested removing ground wire from flasher unit. I said to myself,"yeah right". It worked. He claimed it had to do with Honda`s redundant grounds. try it -it may work for you.