I'm sloooooooowly working on my build of my '52 International pickup, and I paid close attention to the tech thread here on building your own steering column. http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=666232 Well, I'm interested in building a similar column, but going one step further. I want to add turn signals...self-cancelling signals. I remember the '64 Chevelle I once owned had a simple switch for signals, but I don't recall how they cancelled. I figure I can weld up a cup for the switch, and weld in a couple of threaded tubes to mount the switch. But I want to be sure I can have self-cancelling signals...since I'm getting about the age where I don't wanna be the old codger everybody's cussing 'cause his signal's been flashing for the past 13 miles. Info/ideas appreciated.
Seems I recall an article in a hotrod magazine about 35 years ago where some guy adapted a corvair set up on an early ford column.
Ya, Corvair stuff is available new still and very simple. It just slides over a basic tube column and butts up below your steering wheel. Pre 1967 Volkswagon had the same type of deal and it too is reproduced as well.
Maybe you can incorporate a timer into the TS system. I will be installing the TS and HB indicator lights in the header panel above the windshield of my Model A. I want them up in my sight line.
Custom chrome a motorcycle parts supplier had some self canceling units that hooked up to harley turnsignals. I think they were made by badlands.
Speedway offers an electric switched unit that does not require any mechanical canceling system. Very simple and clean.... and adjustable.
In the interest of keeping this discussion totally public, I received a PM suggesting I look into using a '54 Chevy truck switch. Further research showed a cancel cam that attaches to the backside of the steering wheel with two screws. Not sure if these are the only major pieces I'd need, so I'm searching for an exploded view of how the pieces all work together...and if there are any separate springs, etc. involved. AND...I believe I've found the exploded view I was looking for: http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/1929_57chevyparts/57cmpc0257.htm
I'm just working on a '52 Chevy convert for a guy right now and it too has a turn signal switch that simply slides over the tube column and is available new.
Yes, we have all seen the running wild turn indicator on a car in front or behind us, I have done it too I think all new cars should have small lights on top of the dash on each side as most of the factory ones are hard to see or obstructed by the wheel etc...but I digress. Here is what I do when driving my OT ride and plan to do it on my roadster when I get to the build. I move the lever so that the signal works but dont go so far that it clicks and stays. When you are done turning or lane changing it snaps back to the center/off avoiding the dreaded, running wild signal. Making a spring loaded arm that looks vintage wouldn't be too hard...just a thought.
Here's a picture of a '54 Chevy turn signal assembly, as sold by one of the restoration parts vendors: So now I just need to measure the OD of a '54 Chevy column...
If people are cussing the old codger then they are finally paying attention and will be aware and wary of your next move,,I wouldn't change a thing.
When I was helping Burl build the 32 3W coupe we installed the signal and highbeam indicators in the header panel pointing down at the dash top. The LED lights are reflected in the dash top when operating. The dash has both gauges and idiot lights for the engine functions so it was better to move them up top.
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