Rear light cluster earth problems

[S3 Kieran]

I appear to have a bad earth in the OSR light cluster, presumably producing the old Escort flashing Christmas tree effect!

The indicators cut out at the back (rest double speed) when I press the brake. I'm told the reverse light also cuts out with brakes on.

Sorry, I'm being lazy coz I haven't even looked yet, but is there a standard easy solution?

My first stop was going to be clean up the brake light bulb, assuming that is the common problem cause, but any suggestions welcomed

[Podie]

Common problem... I was told yesterday that I have a similar issue.

Best bet it to clean the contacts and apply a bit of WD40.

If that fails to solve it, but some new bulb holders..

[shnozz]

S3 Kieran said:

Sorry, I'm being lazy coz I haven't even looked yet, but is there a standard easy solution?

if you are that lazy I would suggest you dont bother with emery board etc and farting about cleaning the contacts. Buy 2 new bulb holders from ford for about £16 and change em over.

[Podie]

Speak to Pies, he has some for sale..

[S3 Kieran]

Thanks guys.

Happy to emery off my finger tips, just didn't want to do it only to find I needed new boards any way.

While I'm fixing her, I'm not driving her! Damn, yesterday was fun - several tail-out moments, big enough to satisfy, but not so big as to scare me

(Cue NGS - you know you can't resist)

[Podie]

S3 Kieran said:

... big enough to satisfy, but not so big as to scare me

[BERGS2]

tape the connecter at a very slight angle to the bulb holder -

a bit of a bodge but it has worked for me and others!

edited to add: www.pistonheads.co.uk/gassing/topic.asp?f=11&h=&t=56863

>> Edited by BERGS2 on Monday 15th March 13:14

[RichardR]

BERGS2 said:

tape the connecter at a very slight angle to the bulb holder

Just what I was going to suggest!

shnozz said:

if you are that lazy I would suggest you dont bother with emery board etc and farting about cleaning the contacts. Buy 2 new bulb holders from ford for about £16 and change em over.

Although you might find the problem is [also] with the connector that press-fits onto the light bar.

[shnozz]

RichardR said:

BERGS2 said: tape the connecter at a very slight angle to the bulb holder Just what I was going to suggest! shnozz said: if you are that lazy I would suggest you dont bother with emery board etc and farting about cleaning the contacts. Buy 2 new bulb holders from ford for about £16 and change em over. Although you might find the problem is [also] with the connector that press-fits onto the light bar.

yep I agree - ended up taping mine up with inso tape at an angle to get them to work. The hours of fun I had with those disco rear lights. ah

edited to add this old link www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?f=11&h=&t=31944

>> Edited by shnozz on Monday 15th March 14:14