Thanks Ruley 73, you obviously have a schematic and know how to interpret it. This is the info I have been searching for prior to 'going in blind' and attempting to make sense of the readings I get.
I have suspected the 4 way flasher switch but not knowing much about how it is wired I have been reluctant to open the column for testing. I can proceed now with confidence, as soon as the weather co-operates with me. I will however first change out the flasher [I think I still have one from a parts car I bought/sold last year]-will also double check the fuses.
I will post what I find after I find it, just don't get in a hurry as this is my work car and need to have both the time and a warm place to troubleshoot the problem to conclusion.