Turn signals working part time

[Niels B]

When I was out cruising on the bikes last week I noticed on my yellow ‘78 XS E, that my turn signal only work if I kept holding the handlebar switch to whatever side I had to turn. When parked it works as it should to both sides. The charging system works, all the wires are new, battery has plenty of power and are charging when running.
The switch is a new reproduction one.
Can’t make sense of it - could it be a bad relay that somehow don’t like vibrations ? Anyone else ever had this issue ?

 

[Its been a long time]

It is possible that it's a relay and vibration issue. I replaced the stock relay and self cancelling unit with a modern load independent relay. It worked absolutely fine when standing still. But once rolling, the engine vibration made it hyper flash. Rubber mounting the flasher relay cured the hyper flash issue.

So, I had a different issue, but a vibration associated issue nonetheless.

 

[Jan_P]

I also have a new reproduction switch and mine is not working at all currently and I don't believe it s the relay I have tried different
and it does not matter if running or standstill
Sometimes it is working left turn .
I suspect the switch I have had it open .And lubricated w 40 but still not working Did not have time yesterday investigate
more .To cold and rain

 

[Niels B]

I hope it’s the relay - it’s rubber mounted though but if older dates. Would hate to switch the handlebar switch - (I have a refurb original) but just thinking about getting back in to the headlight housing and dis/re- connect wires make me wanna cry ( I hate the way they jammed everything into the headlight !

 

[Jan_P]

I hope it’s the relay - it’s rubber mounted though but if older dates. Would hate to switch the handlebar switch - (I have a refurb original) but just thinking about getting back in to the headlight housing and dis/re- connect wires make me wanna cry ( I hate the way they jammed everything into the headlight !

Yes it is a hassle the wiring ,The relays are cheap and found at auto parts store here
$ 7 across the counter here in town

 

[Jan_P]

Found my Problem a connector going into the headlight bucket was open

 

[Niels B]

Found my Problem a connector going into the headlight bucket was open

One down - still haven’t figured my issue out - haven’t been on that bike since last week - always shuffling around which bike to ride - have a problem with to many bikes - really need to clean out soon!