Turn signal problems

[Savferguson1]

So my boyfriend and I have a 98 XLT Ford ranger 3.0 v6 4x4 truck. and we love it , but we have a turn signal problem and we can't figure it out. So it started out with us blowing a fuse every time we turn the turn signals on and we tracked it down and it turns out that it was the cigarette lighter fuse. so to be able use the turn signals we would replace the blown fuse constantly. So we got a new multi function switch to see if that was the problem. then we heard kind of like a buzzing sound when you would turn on the turn signals which the turn signals sort worked after we replaced the multi function switch. then two days later the wires heading to the turn signal relay started smoking. so we got a turn signal relay from a junk yard So only then the hazard lights would work after that . so then we got a new multi function switch and turn signal relay and the wire harness plug that goes from the multi function switch and the turn signal and fuses and relays and replaced it all for the second time and checked all of the bulbs and they are fine. And now you hear the turn signal clicking sound but only the hazards light when you turn the turn signal on and the battery light flickers but still no turn signals. we just got done replacing the alternator and the battery light still flicker but only when you turn on either one of the turn signals so if anyone out there could help us figure it out what's wrong with it or if you can bypass the the turn signals by putting in a toggle switch so that we can have turn signals again. any body could help that .that would be really greatly appreciate

 

[franklin2]

Check fuse 21 in the under dash fuse panel. If it's blown and you replace it, it sounds like it will probably blow again but you can try it.

If you want to try and fix this, you are going to have to get a testlight, and work with us some using the testlight to do some checks. No way to narrow it down unless you do some testing with the testlight. See if that fuse is blown first. It says it's a 15 amp.

 

[Shadowrider6661]

I'm not certain about this but, have you checked to make sure that none of the turn signal positive wires are shorted on the body or frame. Sometimes the vibrations from on or off road travel wears off the wire Insulation and can create the type of electrical problem you're describing. It's only a thought. It doesn't hurt to look. Good luck.

 

[MikeG]

Something is shorting out. Trace out every wire, one of them is missing some insulation, somewhere. Only a direct short is going to draw enough power to make anything smoke......

 

[sgtsandman]

I agree, you have a wire problem that is going to take some time to chase down where the problem is. It could be a wire worn bare and shorting on the body or frame or it could be a bad light socket as examples.