Emergency Flashing Lights

[swedishandgerman]

Hi all,

I just wanted to share something that I saw over on an aircooled VW forum that I thought was very good. I've often though about what to do if I breakdown without hazard warning lights. In one of my Amazons I have a piece of wire to connect up the 2 rear indicators to flash at the same time, but what a ball ache!

Well here's a good and cheap solution:

https://www.aldi.co.uk/led-warning-l...69008021546100

Battery powered flashing LED's with a magnet.

[arcturus]

Seen this before but I think it might be illegal for car use.

[swedishandgerman]

Originally Posted by arcturus

Seen this before but I think it might be illegal for car use.

Don't care! Better than not having flashing lights if I break down! I would prefer to attract as much attention to my stationary car if needs be!

[arcturus]

Me to. Just thought I would warn you. If I remember correctly it's written on box.

[Ponvanman]

I have a magnetic amber flashing light which goes on the roof and plugs into the cigarette lighter socket

[Ron Kwas]

Forum;

Ideally, we should keep our cars in an operating condition that they aren't likely to break down...but of course, it's always good to be prepared for such an eventuality...so adding Emergency Flashers is a very good idea, and I do recommend it! It involves connecting right and left Directional Indicator circuits together (preferably with something less rustic and not requiring contortions under the dashboard or hood [bonnet], than a wire dangling somewhere...), and applying (Battery) power by way of a Flasher Element.

Simply connecting the two Dir Ind circuits (Ign Pwr) together also means that to flash, Volvo owners would need to turn key to apply power...not a problem, BUT...it is important to remember to use the Accessory Pos 1 for this which does not also apply Ign Coil power (to avoid overheating coil)!

To do this more cleanly and properly, I do like the EFlasher Switches which were installed in the '67+ 140 series (US market). They feature a knob shape which matches the other controls nicely, and which is lighted, and flashes along, when the EFlasher function is engaged. Technically, these are also a breeze to connect as they have their own Flasher Element...so are connected with a mere three wires! Unfortunately, these 140 switches are getting difficult to find at this point...so I have started looking for alternatives. What I have found as a possible option is a switch originally marketed for tractors! The NESAN switch has a similar tulip shaped lighted knob and is reasonably priced from a number of (EU) sellers on e-pay!

Beware, this switch has no Flasher Element so needs to be wired in using a total of seven wires...also, poor quality, no name knock-offs of the switch are also offered...I recommend staying away from these...I got one for evaluation and it looked like it would last from 11 to noon (on a good day!) or maybe ten activations! I have yet to get one of the NESAN switches for a critical inspection, but from the rubbish knock-off, I expect the originals to be acceptable, although I have yet to confirm this.

See additional details here: http://www.sw-em.com/emergflash.htm

Cheers!

[Volvo_133]

I have a red flashing pull switch with built in flasher unit as Ron has suggested.
Has a 12v feed which is non-ignition, so car can be locked up safely if needed.
A friend of mine has a breakers yard, where most of his cars are from this generation. I will see what i can find on my next visit. I enjoy a good rummage around in breakers yards.
I have also fitted a variable intermittent wiper switch from an old 340??? I have removed the cig lighter and used its hole for the wiper unit.

Chris.

[Ron Kwas]

Chris;

It would be super if your friend could supply the VOC community with some 140 style EFlasher switches.

It should be noted that when mounting EFlasher Switches (whether alternate manufacturer or the OE 140 style) in hole originally occupied by Cig Lighter, that some centering washers need to be added to keep the much smaller bushing of the switch centered in the huge hole, as well as a positive chassis connection to the switch bushing (...its' the return current path for Indicator in knob).

Cheers

[SWAmazon]

Good idea, the (11 year old) battery failed on my GT6 a couple of weeks ago in the dark, not enough in it to power the hazard lights. In those circumstances who cares whether the flashing warning light is legal?

[red122]

Bought one from Aldi yesterday . well worth it given i don't have hazards on my amazon .
going on winter challenge to monte carlo next week and if i break down in the fog ill be glad of one of these.
thank you for the heads up