Signal light question (Not LED)

So i purchased new signal light for my 82 XJ550. I hooked them up and they don't flash. The lights use 1156 bulbs so its the same bulb as stock. Could it be my flasher has stopped working and just needs to be replaced? I don't have any tail/brake lights on the bike right now but i am not sure if that affects the signals. Any ideas?

 

There are a host of reasons why your Signal Light doesn't work.

Bad rear bulbs.
Corroded sockets.
Socket "Platform" stuck.
Bad switch on Control.

Original Fuse Panel.

Buy one of these.
http://www.rjtool.com/circuit-sounder-p ... an-72.html

And one of these.
http://www.hbliquorliquor.com/proddetai ... 495&cat=12

Troubleshoot!

 

Are both the signals front and rear (both sides) lighting up or just on per side

 

All lights are brand new so corroded or stuck sockets is not the problem. All the lights work so the bulbs are not the issue

 

When i turn the signal to the left both the left ones light up and stay lit. When i turn the signal to the right both the right ones turn on and stay lit. The turn on correctly they just don't flash

Is that what your asking?

 

yeah that what i was asking sorry it was kind of confusing.
mine did the same thing to me this spring i threw a new flasher at it and it works great now. If the switch turns them on and off then it is working and if the bulbs light up then the wiring circuit is likely ok i would guess flasher

 

Just for something to do that will take you less than 20-minutes ...

Check the length of your Alternator Brushes.

 

I was going to suggest not enough charge on the battery, but someone already said bad flasher...

 

I'd guess weak battery as well.

 

The test for that is how they behave when the bike is running above 2K rpm.

If they flash fine when the bike is running above 2K rpm, but won't flash at idle, you do indeed have a weak battery. The XJs charging system doesn't "kick in" until you hit 2200 rpm or so; below that it's all on the battery.

So if you're testing them in the garage with the bike not running then most likely it's simply a weak battery. And it doesn't have to be very weak.

 

Thanks for the replies. The bike is a bit of a project so i'll get it running again and see if they work then. And if that isn't it i'll change out the flasher.

 

Good plan I overlooked the batt. I always work with it on the charge a thing ny dad always pushed

 

Hello all- dont post often, but I read the informed opinions here all the time.
I have a similiar problem to what you describe above, ie- dont flash reliably at idle. I just ordered a service manual to help me troubleshoot, and I will hook the battery up to a charger tonight. My question- what should the bike be reading at idle? Just a flat 12V? Mine is a mint 82 750 Maxim
thanks