Turn signal install question

Lance Workman

Lance Workman

Junior Member
Hello
Recently I obtained a 1930 Ford Model A roadster deluxe. I hardly know anything about the Model As. I quickly realized I needed to add turn signals to it. Based on the positive comments from this forum, I ordered
a hidden turn signal kit from Electro-Tech. I have the turn signal switch and the control box mounted. Now I need to connect the red power wire
for the control box to a power source. The instruction manual reads "connect red wire to full time power at the ignition switch, headlight switch, ammeter or fuse block." Do any of you have any suggestion or opinions about which would be the best location. I'm really at a loss about this, but have located the headlight switch at the bottom of the steering wheel column under the hood. Thanks in advance for any help!
Lance
 
A stock Model A does not have switched Auxiliary circuit. The only thing that the key does is control power to the coil. On the engine side of the firewall you will see the terminal box. I would pick up power right there. Your kit likely comes with a fuse. Make sure you use it. A stock Model A has no fuses.

Ken
 
Thanks for the response Ken. I'm not real sure where the terminal box is.
Is it the black box under the coil looking thing near the top of the firewall on the engine side. I took the cover off and it seems that there are two bolts that have wires to them. Any idea about which side I should connect
the red wire from the control box of the turn signal kit? I think the model A's have a six volt positive ground -- at least that is what the gentleman
whom I bought mine from said mine was. So should I connect the red power wire to the positive (ground side) or the negative side. If you are standing in front of the vehicle looking at the terminal box which side do you think I should connect the wire to?
Thanks
Lance
 
Both sides of the terminal box are negative. Just try one side and see if the ammeter flicks as the turn signals flash. If not, then connect to the other post.

BTW, if you are close to a Model A club, it's a big help to join.
 
Hello Tom
Thanks for the response to my terminal box question. Now I'm looking for the vehicle's brake light switch. The turn signal kit directions say I have to
disconnect a wire at the brake light switch and run a new wire back to the
turn signal controller. I've looked for the brake light switch but can't seem to locate it.
I'm trying to find a Model A club somewhere near mid western lower Michigan. I know all of this is new and I really need the help of a club, but
to drive the Model A without turn signals is just plain dangerous around here.
Lance
 
28 and 29 A's mounted the brake switch on the top left side of the ******. Later A's mounted the brake switch in the center crossmember.
 
Even with the turn signals flashing I had some $@^@&$ soccer mom rear end me. That convinced me to install rear LEDs. Haven't been rear-ended since or yet again. The LEDs don't look quite right, but, they are bright.
 
Lance, welcome to the fine family of Model A Ford ownership and the FB too!!

Here's a wiring diagram that may prove helpful now or in the future:
 

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Thank you for the suggestion about the Led lights. Right now I really like the look of the regular lights. A close call on the road may change my mind though.
Lance
 
Thanks for the wiring diagram. It seemed to help clear up the Model A's wiring for me. I'm really impressed with this site. The Model A's are just too cool!!!
Lance
 
It looks like Tom helped you out with your question about the Terminal Box (there is no one better).

I have regular bulbs in my turn signals, but I do like the LEDs in the tail/brake light, especially since I only have the one on the left side. The LEDs are significantly more visible.

Ken
 
Using the brake lights as turn indicators was banned here back in the mid '50s. I wouldn't do anyway. It's easier (wiring is dead simple) and better to use a separate light for the indicators, amber preferably- the same as the front ones. They can be made inconspicuous when not in use, if you like.
 
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