Late
model Twin Cams and XLs have either a TSM (Turn Signal Module) or a TSSM
(Turn Signal/Security Module). Altering the stock turn signal system by
changing or adding aftermarket lights will
quite often still operate correctly but you will notice that when you turn
the key on both turn signals will flash rapidly, this means that the
system has detected a problem and stored a code in the TSM/TSSM. Your
dealer can clear the code but it will come right back until the system has
been put back to stock or you burn out this high dollar module.
The later model stock
H-D (1990-2000 BT, 1991-2003 XL) turn signal module requires a specific amount of amperage draw from
the turn signal light bulb to make them flash. Quite commonly, when custom
or smaller (or LED) turn signals are installed, they will not provide
enough amperage draw to flash the lights, thus requiring the installation
of a "Load Equalizer" (often made by Badland). It is a small box
(usually installed somewhere under the seat) with one wire
attached to the left turn signal wire, one wire connected to the right
turn signal wire and one wire routed to ground. The load equalizer creates
an extra amperage draw to the system fooling the system into
thinking the stock lights are still being used and simply routes the extra
amperage safely to ground, allowing the lights to flash.
Old
Harleys just have flasher units that do not self cancel (usually located
inside of the headlight bucket). If this unit goes
bad you will probably not have much luck finding one at your local dealer
unless you want to order it, but you can usually get one at your local
automotive store for a few bucks and it will work just the same as the H-D
version.
_________________________
I get hundreds of
questions about turn signal problems, personally I don't get it.
The only problems I ever have with my turn signal is that everyone thinks
I'm waving at them!
lights will
quite often still operate correctly but you will notice that when you turn
the key on both turn signals will flash rapidly, this means that the
system has detected a problem and stored a code in the TSM/TSSM. Your
dealer can clear the code but it will come right back until the system has
been put back to stock or you burn out this high dollar module.
The later model stock
H-D (1990-2000 BT, 1991-2003 XL) turn signal module requires a specific amount of amperage draw from
the turn signal light bulb to make them flash. Quite commonly, when custom
or smaller (or LED) turn signals are installed, they will not provide
enough amperage draw to flash the lights, thus requiring the installation
of a "Load Equalizer" (often made by Badland).
It is a small box
(usually installed somewhere under the seat) with one wire
attached to the left turn signal wire, one wire connected to the right
turn signal wire and one wire routed to ground. The load equalizer creates
an extra amperage draw to the system fooling the system into
thinking the stock lights are still being used and simply routes the extra
amperage safely to ground, allowing the lights to flash.
Old
Harleys just have flasher units that do not self cancel (usually located
inside of the headlight bucket). If this unit goes
bad you will probably not have much luck finding one at your local dealer
unless you want to order it, but you can usually get one at your local
automotive store for a few bucks and it will work just the same as the H-D
version.