914 alternator/flasher problem

[chrispy]

i need help
I'm almost done with rewiring/rebuilding a 1972 914
when i turn the key on, the secondary flasher for the red light on the emergency
light on the multi-gauge flashes continually.
i can deactivate it by disconnecting the blue/brown wire from the gen light to the flashing red light, or by unplugging the alternator from the relay board.
when i disconnect the blue/brown wire the gen light still works.
the alternator worked when it was in the previous 914.
i have not started this car yet. i am trying to finish electrical first
thanks for any help
chrispy

[Scott Walshaw]

I believe that light will continue to flash until the engine is actually started and the parking brake is completely released and "seated" on the small switch that cancels the flasher? Since you haven't started the engine I don't think you can tell whether you have any problem with the alternator...

[RichW]

That flasher is also for your brakes. If there is no brake fluid or your master cylinder isn't in yet, it will flash continually.

[chrispy]

the brake wires are isolated from flashing red light on multi-meter
car doesn't run yet, do the flashing lights stop after car is started?

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

The lights should not have to do with the engine being on or off, just with the key being on or off. And, of course, the handbrake handle switch and the switch in the master cylinder.

If you just recently had the brake system open at all (e.g., bleeding the calipers, or replacing a line, etc.) the master cylinder switch has almost certainly detected an imbalance in the system pressures and been tripped. Most switches must be reset manually, with a button on the switch body. Look on the master cylinder for where the wires plug in; there should be a rubber cover or an uncovered button. Press the button, or the cover if there. That should reset the switch.

If that, combined with the handbrake handle pressing on the button under it, does not turn out the light, you need to check to see where the wires to those have shorted to ground.

--DD

[chrispy]

problem solved
when car was started the flashing red light stoped
thanks for the help
chrispy