turn signal retrack

[titan3c]

The turn signals on my 71 411 won't retrack, and have to be turned off by hand. Can that be fixed? I've been told that parts are not available for the 71, but for all other type 4's.

[KTPhil]

I am not familiar with the Type 4 column and canceling mechanism, but if it's like the other Types, there are probably spring loaded plastic catches in the turn signal switch that have broken off. There is a guy 3D printing replacements, or you can harvest them from another turn signal switch, maybe from other Types.

https://www.shapeways.com/product/6RM4Z7S8M/vw-turn-signal-auto-return-spring-retainer

Does your switch look like this?:

[raygreenwood]

The later 411 and 412...72 and on....are identical to the type 3 and some super beetle.

I "think" the 1971....which has the wiper controls on the dash?...right?...basically still uses the same blinker arm unit.

There is a "fin" on the steering wheel hub that pushes on that plastic 'cam" that KTphil showed....as it goes around....releasing the lever.

Ray

[titan3c]

No the wiper controls are on the dash. If a 71 doner part can't fix it, I'm wondering if it could be modified.

[titan3c]

I haven't taken it apart yet to see if it's like your picture. That looks simple enough to fix if it is.

[titan3c]

OK--- I finally got around to looking in the manual. On page 158 you can see a breakdown of both types. On page 182 there is a better diagram of the 71 model. So it looks like item number 15 on page 182 could be where the problem is. This is in the Hynes manual.

[titan3c]

Now I'm thinking it's possible the small screw item 13 that attaches the cancelling ring to the bottom of the steering wheel could have come loose and the cancelling ring is floating. We shall see. Bob

[titan3c]

Well I think I finally got all my brain cells organized. I haven't pulled the steering wheel yet. Wondering if the entire turn signal switch has to be replaced, which gets costly. Ktphil posted a good picture of what I think is the problem, and if it is then only the plastic parts need replacing. Also according to Ray's post my switch is the same as late 71's and on. I checked chassis numbers and mine checked out to be a late 71 model.

I'll be checking out the 3D part source to see the availability and cost. Bob

[ClassicCamper]

Ray -- You mentioned earlier in this thread that the turn signal / wiper stalk was the same as 'some' Super Beetles.

Any ideas which ones specifically? I could use a new one and I know that the SB stalks are fairly easy to get.
_________________
1973 412 Wagon
1976 Westy
1978 SB Vert

[raygreenwood]