should i replace blinker fuse, if so , where is the blinker located and what does it look like? thank you very much.

Welcome to the forum!

I believe your '97 taurus also uses the integrated, electronic flasher. Your problem is more likely the multifunction switch in the steering column. Try searching the forum, I believe someone has a write up on how to easily replace the switch. It's fairly straight forward and the part isn't all that expensive (I realize both of these comments are relative to your baseline).

-Rod

I had a similar problem with my 98 Taurus and it turned out to be the turn signal relay which is located up under the dash near the Headlight switch. Its a box about 1.5 inches square. I thought mine was the multifunction switch also but then got to looking at the schematics and found this relay. It was cheaper than the switch. Just an option to check.

when i wiggle the hazard button on the top of the steering column, i can sometimes get the turn signals to work. does this rule out the multifunction switch or the relay afore mentioned?

I think that rules in the multifunction switch. The hazard switch on the steering column is part of the multifunction switch.

-Rod