Here at YnZ’s I often get requests to rewire customers original turn signal switches. There were a huge assortment of types and manufactures. Some of the switches are really odd. However, I think most of them are an interesting example of the automotive art. I have started keeping a picture log of the switches we recieve and what information I have about the switch.

This particular switch must have been an aftermarket accessory in the mid-fifties. The wire used on it was PVC insulated with a brown cloth braid over it. It also has the nice feature of having a wheel on it that would self-cancel the switch. The front of the switch says “Auto Lamp, Chicago”.
Interestingly enough once opened the switch mechanism was a typical ford switch. I have provided a wiring diagram below for anyone who has this particular switch.

The rubber wheel on the switch was in bad shape. I sprayed the rubber heavily with silicon spray. After letting the silicon sit for a few hours the rubber was a lot softer. After that I applied some brushable electrical tape over the wheel to seal it and provide an extra layer of contact material.

I charged the customer $60 to rewire this. I ran all new wire right to the switch, rebraided it and even put a connector on the other end so it matched perfectly to the harness we made him. So after a little work the customer has a nice rewired vintage piece on his steering column instead of the clunky aftermarket pieces available now.