'81 Electrical Gremlin - Seeking Input
Thread Starter
5th Gear
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 3
Likes: 1
From: Fairfax VA
'81 Electrical Gremlin - Seeking Input
Howdy All,
Here's a question that's been driving me mad..
My '81 was burning through right side rear signal lamps like candy. Almost without fail, I could count on losing ~1 / month. Until I have the time to really get elbow deep in her, I've just kept a steady supply of 1157 bulbs handy. (I know, I'm a horrible Daddy for doing so.. in fact, that's probably why she's so mad at me now!)
Most recently, I've run into another issue. First, I thought the signal bulb was dead again, since the signal "locked" "on" when the lever was operated.
Symptoms -
- Signal does not "flash" in cockpit, stay's "on"
- Rear right running light is dim compared to left.
- 4-way flashers function, but right side rear signal is dim.
- Brake light is dim on rear right.
I've pulled every signal and running bulb, checked / replaced all. No dice..
I've checked fuses under dash near left foot, all good.
I'm running out of ideas; the only thing I can come up with is a grounding issue somewhere.. Anyone ever dealt with a similar problem? Any tips? Ideas?
Please help!! - Thanks!!
Here's a question that's been driving me mad..
My '81 was burning through right side rear signal lamps like candy. Almost without fail, I could count on losing ~1 / month. Until I have the time to really get elbow deep in her, I've just kept a steady supply of 1157 bulbs handy. (I know, I'm a horrible Daddy for doing so.. in fact, that's probably why she's so mad at me now!)
Most recently, I've run into another issue. First, I thought the signal bulb was dead again, since the signal "locked" "on" when the lever was operated.
Symptoms -
- Signal does not "flash" in cockpit, stay's "on"
- Rear right running light is dim compared to left.
- 4-way flashers function, but right side rear signal is dim.
- Brake light is dim on rear right.
I've pulled every signal and running bulb, checked / replaced all. No dice..
I've checked fuses under dash near left foot, all good.
I'm running out of ideas; the only thing I can come up with is a grounding issue somewhere.. Anyone ever dealt with a similar problem? Any tips? Ideas?
Please help!! - Thanks!!
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 12,239
Likes: 19
From: Chino CA
On GM cars and trucks, when the dash board indicator does not flash, it indicates a burned out bulb on that side.
EDIT: The "dim" bulbs could trigger the non-flashing indicator as well....and yes....dim bulbs sounds like a grounding issue.
EDIT: The "dim" bulbs could trigger the non-flashing indicator as well....and yes....dim bulbs sounds like a grounding issue.
Last edited by MrJlr; Nov 3, 2010 at 05:08 PM.
Safety Car
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 4,359
Likes: 57
From: Mundelein Illinois
Check two things
1
As stated above it maybe a grounding problem, also check front turn signal and bulb in right front bumper. Make sure sockets are not corroded and place a little electric grease in each socket.
2
Make sure bubba has not been in the wiring
1
As stated above it maybe a grounding problem, also check front turn signal and bulb in right front bumper. Make sure sockets are not corroded and place a little electric grease in each socket.
2
Make sure bubba has not been in the wiring
