Indicators and door lock problems

C

ccmguy8

Member
Messages
34
Reaction score
1
Location
Kirkland, WA
Hey folks,
My 1971 2800CS has two small problems that I was hoping to get some advice on.

First, the front turn indicators don't flash yet the rear indicators do so properly when signaling. I'm thinking the front indicator relay is out but how do I replace it?

Secondly, when I use my key to lock the doors, it takes quite a bit of force to do so and I'm afraid that I'll break the key off one of these days. Is there some way to loosen up the locking mechanism without having to remove the inner door panel? I tried a small amount of WD-40 into the keyholes without much improvement.

Thanks in advance.

RIP Murray Fowler. You are an inspiration to us all.
 
ccmguy8 said:
Hey folks,
My 1971 2800CS has two small problems that I was hoping to get some advice on.

First, the front turn indicators don't flash yet the rear indicators do so properly when signaling. I'm thinking the front indicator relay is out but how do I replace it?

Secondly, when I use my key to lock the doors, it takes quite a bit of force to do so and I'm afraid that I'll break the key off one of these days. Is there some way to loosen up the locking mechanism without having to remove the inner door panel? I tried a small amount of WD-40 into the keyholes without much improvement.
Click to expand...


There has been much written about similar flashing laments. Your target relay would ordinarily be found under the dash very close to the steering column, north of your knees. Per photo below, it is attached by a bayonet-type mount. Before condemning the relay, you might also consider how the lights function with the emergency flasher too.

BTW, I recently observed someone track down a similar problem on a different model only to discover both front turn signal bulbs were loose in their corroded sockets.

61311364984.jpg


http://www.e9coupe.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9515
http://www.e9coupe.com/forum/showthread.php?t=12228
http://www.e9coupe.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10336
http://www.e9coupe.com/forum/showthread.php?t=6507
http://www.e9coupe.com/forum/showthread.php?t=7466





Is there some way to loosen up the locking mechanism without having to remove the inner door panel?

Unless you are a magician, a micro surgeon, or deQuincey, no. Removing the door panel will reveal two likely culprits to the uncooperative door lock: the linkage to the door lock and the locking mechanism. It is not just the lock where the key is inserted. Although that mechanism can gum up and jam, there is a simple mechanical linkage that is held together with very simple grommets ( PN 52208238999). The grommets can loosen, wear or break. They are small but significant.

The second and less likely culprit is the device pictured below, which controls the door jam latch. It can stick due to accumulated dirt or rust or even wear. Unless yours has been used to break walnut shells or stir tar, a thorough cleaning and light lubrication after 40 years might make things move butter smooth.

Like a box of chocolates, you will never know what you are gonna get until you open it.






attachment.php


23.png
 
Yes, try the emergency flasher and see if they work then.

A priori I would say either the front ground is disconnected or the indicator signal itself is disconnected going to the front indicators.

I would be surprised if the front indicators work in emergency flasher mode.
 
Thanks for the advice gents. Looks like I'll be removing the door panels but I've never done that on an E9 before. Any tips on how to remove them?

BTW, the front indicators do not work even with the emergency/hazard lights engaged. I will definitely check that the bulbs are not burnt out before digging further. Thanks again for all the guidance!
 
Can't hurt to grease the tracks, check that all wires and bolts are tight, and clean/vacuum any debris in the bottom of the door, making sure the drains are clear. Then spray some Penetrol or other rust treatment into the creases of the metal and along the bottom, with something on the ground to catch the excess drips.

ccmguy8 said:
Do you think I should do anything else while I have the door panel off such as grease the window mechanisms?
Click to expand...
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top