Identifing relays

[backyardmechanic]

I'm trying to troubleshoot my 1998 f150. I'm having a right blinker problem. It acts like a burn out bulb but I have replaced the bulb with a know good one and still acts the same. I suspect a relay. I know where the relay distribution box is but how do I identify which relay goes to what?

Thanks

[99 Neon R/T]

owners manual.But the turn signal should go through a flasher relay under the dash.It should be cylindrical metal or plastic and is probably under the driver side.If you cant look and identify it then turn the key on and turn on the opposite side blinker and listen for a ticking noise.Just feel around till you find it.Good luck

[backyardmechanic]

I traced the clicking noise back to the relay box next to the engine. Of course when the light doesn't work it clicks faster. I pulled the relay making the noise with no change. Noise went away but turn signal still didn't work. Also when I put the turn signal up where it would lock in place, it would not work. But if I pushed it up just under when it would lock in place and hold it there, the turn signal operates normally. What does this tell you?

[way2old]

weak or loose contacts in the socket

[unclebubbles]

Originally Posted by backyardmechanic

I'm trying to troubleshoot my 1998 f150. I'm having a right blinker problem. It acts like a burn out bulb but I have replaced the bulb with a know good one and still acts the same. I suspect a relay. I know where the relay distribution box is but how do I identify which relay goes to what?

Thanks

If all else fails, check the turn signal switch itself. The fact that you can push it to a certain spot and it works, leads me to believe its the problem. If yours has the multifunction switch, they give alot of trouble. The back of the switch is open in several spots, and dust and dirt can enter. It has alot of sliding contacts that can get dirty and cause problems like youre having. I take them apart and clean the contacts, and usually keep a spare one ready to go. Theyre pretty pricey, about 80 $ at autozone, and over 100 from ford i think. If you have a buddy with the same switch, you can swap em in a few minutes and see if that cures the problem. Only 2 screws, and 2 harness connectors, after you get the cover off. Good luck
Later
Ed
.

[backyardmechanic]

I know it's not the socket as way2old suggested as I swapped it out with the good side and it worked. I bought a service manual (Haynes) and it shows having a multi function switch. So I'll start there. All I need is a warm place to work. Thanks for the help.