Turn flasher problem

[iwannabenz]

The left-hand turn signal (driver's side)on my '85 380sl started flashing about twice the normal speed. That's easy, I thought, a burnt out bulb. Went around to the front of the car and sure 'nuf the turn signal light was not operating. Took it apart, the bulb tested good with a meter. Swapped it with the passenger side bulb, it worked there, the previously working passenger side bulb didn't work now that it was in the driver's side, same condition, fast flashing left turn indicator, rear left signal lamp flashes fast. Checked for a good ground on the lamp socket, good ground was present. Looked for voltage coming to the lamp when turn signal activated, nothing. Spent more time on the "search" than I shound have and came up with a reference to a poor 4-way flasher switch, played with this, no better. The 4-way flashers operate at a normal flashing speed, of course the front left turn signal does not light. I am now tryng to find where the turn signal flasher may be located, as this is the last thing I can think of. Does anyone know where it might be located? As well, are there separate flasher units for the turn signals and the 4-ways?
Thnx.

[adiaw83]

I'm havin a slightly similar problem. The turn signal indicator on the instrument cluster does not light up all though the actual turn signals are operating normally. I have no clue whats causing this. any ideas?

[107inOZ]

I could do with an answer to this too please.

I have a 1982 380SL and the flashers just stopped working. The fuse is OK. Where do I find the flasher can, and is it a standard size, so I can put in one with a louder click?

[alanc]

On my 83 euro, the flasher relay is right behind the instrument cluster.

Also, if you didn't put in exactly the right mercedes bulb, it'll flash faster, because it's sucking off more juice.

[107inOZ]

Thanks Alanc.

I had tools in hand ready to do the work, but having read about the hazard warning flasher unit being related to the normal flashers, I thought I would check that first.

Pressing the hazard button, the right hand flashers came on. So I then operated the left indicator, and all flashers came on. I then tried the right indicator and only the right came on.

Then I switched off the hazards and tried the indicators alone - now they worked perfectly. So I decided to leave well enough alone.

I'm sure the hardard lights are intended to flash all four. Does this suggest a poor connection at the harzard flasher unit? Underneath the console between the seats?

I think I will go back and check this out next weekend so the time is at my choosing, rather than the car's.

[sublettd]

All of the turn signals and flashers operate through the hazard flasher switch. Have had problems with mine operating correctly off and on since buying the car. Just ordered a new hazard switch through Fast Lane for $17.00 instead of the dealership which wants $33.00. I expect this to fix my problem.