Turn Signals: Description and Operation

TURN SIGNAL & HAZARD WARNING SYSTEM
The turn signal and hazard warning system includes the following major components, which are described in further detail elsewhere in this service information:
- Combination Flasher
- Hazard Warning Switch
- Turn Signal Cancel Cam
- Turn Signal Indicators
- Turn Signal Lamps
- Turn Signal Switch

Hard wired circuitry connects the turn signal and hazard warning system components to each other through the electrical system of the vehicle. Refer to the appropriate wiring information.

The turn signal system operates on battery current received on a fused ignition switch output (run-acc) circuit so that the turn signals will only operate with the ignition switch in the ON or Accessory positions. The hazard warning system operates on non- switched battery current received on a fused B(+) circuit so that the hazard warning remains operational regardless of the ignition switch position. When the turn signal system is activated, the circuitry of the turn signal switch and the combination flasher will cause the selected turn signal indicator, front park/turn signal lamp, and rear tail/stop/turn signal lamp to flash ON and OFF. When the hazard warning system is activated, the circuitry of the hazard warning switch and the combination flasher will cause both the right side and the left side turn signal indicators, front park/turn signal lamps, and rear tail/stop/turn signal lamps to flash ON and OFF.

The hard wired circuits of the turn signal and hazard warning system can be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools and methods.

TURN SIGNAL CANCEL CAM
The turn signal cancel cam is concealed within the steering column below the steering wheel and consists of two lobes on a molded plastic ring that is snapped into the lower hub of the clockspring rotor. The clockspring mechanism provides turn signal cancellation as well as a constant electrical connection between the horn switch, driver airbag, and the speed control switches on the steering wheel and the instrument panel wire harness on the steering column. The clockspring housing is secured to the multi-function switch mounting housing on the steering column and remains stationary. The rotor of the clockspring, including the turn signal cancel cam lobes rotate with the steering wheel.

The turn signal cancel cam is serviced as a unit with the clockspring and cannot be repaired. If faulty or damaged, the entire clockspring unit must be replaced. (Refer to ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/ CLOCKSPRING - REMOVAL).

When the turn signals are activated, a turn signal cancel actuator is extended from the inside surface of the multi-function switch housing toward the center of the steering column and the turn signal cancel cam. When the steering wheel is rotated, one of the two turn signal cancel cam lobes will contact the turn signal cancel actuator. The cancel actuator latches against the cancel cam rotation in the direction opposite that which is signaled.