RAM 3500 Truck 2WD V10-8.0L VIN W (1997)
Turn Signal Flasher: Description and Operation
SYSTEM OPERATION
The turn signal flasher contains one fixed contact point, and one contact point attached to a flexible bimetal arm. The contact points are normally
closed. When a turn signal is activated, current flows through the flasher. As the current flows through the bimetal arm, it heats and flexes to pull
the contact points open, stopping current flow. As the bimetal arm cools, it straightens until the contact points close, then the cycle repeats.
The standard turn signal flasher is designed to handle the current flow requirements of the factory-installed lighting. If supplemental lighting is
added to the turn signal circuits, such as when towing a trailer with lights, the current flow through the flasher increases. This causes the flash rate
to increase. It is recommended that the standard flasher be replaced with a heavy-duty (hazard warning) flasher when supplemental lighting is
added.
However, when a turn signal bulb fails with a standard flasher, the remaining bulbs in that circuit will light, but not flash. This will give the driver
an indication to check the turn signal bulbs. Because a heavy-duty flasher has different internal circuitry, a failed bulb will not prevent the
remaining bulbs in the circuit from flashing. Therefore, it is recommended that an occasional visual inspection of exterior turn signal lamp
operation be performed, when a heavy-duty flasher has been installed in the place of the standard flasher.
