turn singnals 81 flash or not flash

[blkryno]

On my 81 XS1100 Special the turn singnals will work only when I keep my thumb on them but go off as soon as I release the switch. Then out of nowhere and for no reason I can figure (at first I thought it might the ambient temp but thats not it) they will stay blinking like their supposed to but not self cancel. I can live without the self canceling but I don't want to keep my thumb on the switch and work the clutch and so and so. Is it the self canceler that is messing up or maybe the flasher. Does anyone know? I bought the bike new in 81 so I know all the parts are stock and the wiring has not been touched.

Blkryno

81 XS1100 Special
79 XS1100 Special

[DGXSER]

I would start with going through the switch and cleaning things up. It can get gunky in there and cause such issues.

If you need a replacement self canceller, I have a spare.

[blkryno]

Hi DGXSR,

Cool. I'll start there and get back later. Thanks

[fredintoon]

Hi DGXSR,

Cool. I'll start there and get back later. Thanks

Hi ryno,
Mine displayed the same symptoms; I took it completely to pieces, cleaned and re-lubed it and soldered back on the wiring attachments that fell apart during the process.
It's worked as it should since then.
That handlebar switch module is too complicated for it's own good, really fiddly to work on and frail besides.
Be careful how you go in there.