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Old 01-15-2012, 09:12 PM   #1
Terry Longest
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Default Turn signals with hidden switch

Hi, fellas,
Is anyone familiar with the turn signal with the hidden switch sold by Bratton's? I like the idea of a hidden switch (not on the shifter or on the column). I would like to know if anyone had problems installing or with reliability of this item. Thanks in advance
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Old 01-15-2012, 09:25 PM   #2
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

I've got the one made by Ron Meister 513 941 0335. It is a small black box and the switch is a small toggle connected to the box by a phone line. I mounted my switch on the shifter but you could put it anywhere you wanted. Mine works great and includes a buzzer so you don't forget.
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Old 01-15-2012, 09:41 PM   #3
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

I`m installing the second one right now in a 31 roadster and mounting the switch on one of the bolts for the gas tank under the dash rail they work very well,one of the nices thing is to buy the wire loom with the turn signal wires already in them it makes for a clean job when finished. I think they all are made by Ron Meister,
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Old 01-15-2012, 10:09 PM   #4
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

I have had the Bratton's hidden turn switch system for several years now and have had no problems with it other than the fact that I had to replace the flasher. Also, I found the buzzer very loud and solved that problem by putting a piece of electrical tape part way across it. A good reliable system. Also has a four way flasher.

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Old 01-15-2012, 11:23 PM   #5
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

Quote:
Originally Posted by jw hash View Post
one of the nices thing is to buy the wire loom with the turn signal wires already in them it makes for a clean job when finished. I think they all are made by Ron Meister,
I did that too.
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Old 01-15-2012, 11:44 PM   #6
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

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For a hidden TS switch,I used DT-SP switch from TheSource in Canada or Radio Shack in USA. Nexxtech#2751533.Mount it behind the dash rail with 2 fender washers thru one of the slots.It will be out of sight.By adding a push-pull switch to TS switch,you can have 4-way flashers when you activate TS switch.
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Old 01-16-2012, 10:06 AM   #7
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

A bit pricey - but check out http://www.turnswitch.com/

I got their unit with the column mounted switch, but they offer a toggle switch that could be mounted almost anywhere.

Several other features including 4-way operation; auto cancel; duplexing lights to be brake and turn; a low volume 'clicker'; electronic (no mechanical flasher); 6 volt or 12 volt, pos or neg ground; more...

I have no affiliation with the company, just like the product.
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Old 01-16-2012, 08:57 PM   #8
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

I appreciate the information and comments.
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Old 01-17-2012, 06:11 PM   #9
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

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Originally Posted by bogiediver View Post
A bit pricey - but check out http://www.turnswitch.com/

I got their unit with the column mounted switch, but they offer a toggle switch that could be mounted almost anywhere.
.
Without a doubt the best ever, easy to install, independent which makes it great, auto shut off after 15 sec. Brake pedal stops shut off, allows tail lights, cowl lights, and separate lights also,.Here is a pic of a switch that we made that goes behind the rail, it has 2 led lights and lights for each signal and both are on when the flasher is working, VERY VERY Handy when driving at night. Its a small plate connected to the "Brain Box" of the unit which is behind the kick panel.
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Old 12-04-2013, 12:51 PM   #10
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

Hey guys. I read this string a while back and bought the electronic signal kit from Turnswitch.com. I like the unit overall, but I have had trouble with it working consistently when the car is on the go. Works fantastic sitting in the driveway. I was told by the vendor that the issue was likely electrical noise and that I needed to add a capacitor at the alternator, but this didn't resolve my issue. Have any of you had trouble with the electronic units and found an add on solution that works?
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Old 12-04-2013, 01:32 PM   #11
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

The only issue I have experienced is on the really bad roads around our area, the left turn signal will turn itself on...

Hit a bad bump - the knob on the end of the lever has enough momentum to bounce down far enough to turn the signal on...

Otherwise - they have worked great for me. Using the cowl lamps for the front turn signals (duplexed thru the unit so still can be used as cowl lights); added a pair of 6V Pos. Gnd LEDs to the rear bumper that are shaped like '39 upside-down teardrops.

I'm on a generator, not alternator...

FWIW
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Old 12-04-2013, 03:08 PM   #12
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

I am contemplating building a very low profile set of turn signals for my coupe. Obviously the car didn't have them from the factory but I plan on driving it daily so safety is a good idea.

My plan is to make use of the 6v system and solid state components for the flashing system and use LED's for the actual lights as they are very small and very bright.

I will keep you all posted on the progress of this when I get to it. I suspect the whole project will cost something around $20 to $50 in parts.
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Old 12-04-2013, 03:47 PM   #13
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

Quote:
Originally Posted by Car Pit View Post
Hey guys. I read this string a while back and bought the electronic signal kit from Turnswitch.com. I like the unit overall, but I have had trouble with it working consistently when the car is on the go. Works fantastic sitting in the driveway. I was told by the vendor that the issue was likely electrical noise and that I needed to add a capacitor at the alternator, but this didn't resolve my issue. Have any of you had trouble with the electronic units and found an add on solution that works?
I would check the ground connections before doing any modification or add-on. On a rough road there could be a ground connection that is intermitant.
Good luck, hope you find the problem.
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Old 12-05-2013, 04:53 PM   #14
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

did you use a thermal fasher or some kind of LED flasher? I've heard there are problems mixing filament type lights with led type and trying to get my plan together.

currently thinking led front yellow bumper mounted & regular filament bulbs on taillites. I also have a thermal flasher ready.

Thanks, Dick
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Old 12-05-2013, 05:37 PM   #15
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

I have regular filament bulbs in the front and LED's in the back. No problem with a standard flasher.
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Old 12-05-2013, 05:54 PM   #16
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

I use a plain old turn signal switch that I mounted up over the kick panel.The switch is mounted sideways,I lift up on the lever for right,and push it down for left.Easy to reach,and it really can't be seen.It is mounted the cowl fore/aft brace,with just one bolt.I thought it would pivot with use,but it has not moved in six years.It is not in the way of anything,even the knees.I tried to show somebody how it worked today,but I had robbed the flasher for another car.I use cowl lights in the front,and a 70 year old lamp with right and left arrows for the rear.That fancy old arrow lamp is useless in the daylight,but shows up good at night.
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Old 12-06-2013, 09:04 AM   #17
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

I have the Bratton's hidden switch on my sedan and it has worked great!
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Old 09-01-2014, 08:51 AM   #18
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

The bratton's hidden switch works great. I did not like the cheap switch component and replaced it with a heavy duty switch from Radio Shack, about $4. Initially, I had it running with third brake led light (serves as directional also) and 2 front bumper filament-type lights. Also, the buzzer would go off each time I hit the brakes (turn signals worked fine). Added two signal diodes to circuit so brake lights would not activate buzzer.

Now converting the 2 front bumper lights to led's (they are very nice) --- having some problems with the heavy duty flasher not working properly ...may go digital here.
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Old 09-01-2014, 11:00 AM   #19
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

With the Bratton unit and using the rear taillight for signals... I presume that the bulb socket must be changed to a dual filament. Which bulb is commonly used for turn signals, running light or stop light? Since I just installed the twolight reflector pans I would like to use those as my "parking lights" and the cowl lights as my dedicated turn signals. Cowl lights came with a 31 Tudor Deluxe, and therefore only one bulb( 32cp headlight) as the headlight assembly. This way no wires show by the bumper braces. Any ideas? Will the headlight lumens block out the visibility of the cowl light signal to oncoming vehicles? Ron
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Old 09-01-2014, 11:18 AM   #20
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

I have had one for almost 8 years, and it works great.....no problems at all! I had mine mounted under the dash rail, on the far left side.....barely visible and easily accessible, would highly recommend it!
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Old 09-01-2014, 11:39 AM   #21
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

Quote:
Originally Posted by NonnoJohn View Post
The bratton's hidden switch works great. I did not like the cheap switch component and replaced it with a heavy duty switch from Radio Shack, about $4. Initially, I had it running with third brake led light (serves as directional also) and 2 front bumper filament-type lights. Also, the buzzer would go off each time I hit the brakes (turn signals worked fine). Added two signal diodes to circuit so brake lights would not activate buzzer.

Now converting the 2 front bumper lights to led's (they are very nice) --- having some problems with the heavy duty flasher not working properly ...may go digital here.

You need one made for low current draw. look up LED Bulb Electronic Flasher.
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Old 09-01-2014, 11:44 AM   #22
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

I just finished installing the Bratton's set up on my 1928 speedster! Nice install and I modify the bracket so I can use it on any type of Model A Ford

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Old 09-01-2014, 12:03 PM   #23
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

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Originally Posted by mrtexas View Post
I've got the one made by Ron Meister 513 941 0335. It is a small black box and the switch is a small toggle connected to the box by a phone line. I mounted my switch on the shifter but you could put it anywhere you wanted. Mine works great and includes a buzzer so you don't forget.
FWIW (as I know this information was written several years ago) but BJ & Casey Miller bought the rights to this turn signal kit several years ago (2009 +/- ) and have been supplying them to many of the vendors ever since. The kits are good quality as are BJ & Casey. For those familiar with Ron's Machine Shop in Shandon, Ohio, will recognize BJ as Ron's son.

http://ronsmachineshop.net/Hidden_Turn_Signal_Kits.html
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Old 09-01-2014, 12:25 PM   #24
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

I am very happy with my Smart Signals.

http://smartsignals.com

Completely made in the USA. Easy to install for driving. Easy to remove for show.

I am not affiliated with Smart Signals in any way, just a happy customer.
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Old 09-01-2014, 03:15 PM   #25
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

700 rpm,
can we get a pic of the rear lights ?
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Old 09-01-2014, 03:57 PM   #26
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Quote:
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700 rpm,
can we get a pic of the rear lights ?
mike
Here is how I use them on my coupe and Tudor. They are wireless and magnetic. I just take them off one car and put them on another. On the truck I attach them to the tailgate. The magnets are very strong and the lights stay attached even on rough roads.

I've got one set, and I just move them from car to car.

The company is way backordered right now. Call them to get a delivery date.
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Old 09-01-2014, 04:25 PM   #27
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

This one looks great if you are upgrading to LED taillight lenses or bulbs.
No need to add any additional rear turn signal lights as you can use your standard rear duolamp housings with LED lights inserted as standard tail, stop and turn, (great brightness for daytime driving.) LEDs use much less current. (good for 6 volt systems) http://www.logolites.com/
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Old 09-02-2014, 01:02 PM   #28
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

Mike you are right...led electronic flasher is needed. thanks for there tip --- I will look around for one.

Using the standard heavy duty flasher --- only the hazard flashers work (front and back/3rd brake light). Directionals only -- do NOT get enough voltage --- only around 2.5 volts. and do NOT work. BTW -- the standard heavy duty flashers are very unpredictable --- checked the ohm reading of L to X terminal -- should be zero when cold and instead was over 8 ohms. these units are real junk.
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Old 09-02-2014, 03:38 PM   #29
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Default Re: Turn signals with hidden switch

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Originally Posted by 700rpm View Post
I am very happy with my Smart Signals.

http://smartsignals.com

Completely made in the USA. Easy to install for driving. Easy to remove for show.

I am not affiliated with Smart Signals in any way, just a happy customer.
When did you receive delivery?
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Old 09-02-2014, 10:40 PM   #30
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When did you receive delivery?
Got mine about Feb 2014. I had about an 80 day wait. Worth it in the long run, for me.
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