When did turns signals become a requirement?

My '67 CJ5 doesn't have a turn signal switch. Doesn't look like it ever did. There were some remains of a 4 way flasher setup, but nothing else. It was a Go-for-Digger welder conversion from day 1, and went straight to the steel mill. I don't think it has EVER had a license plate on it. I am going to rewire the whole thing, so if I have to add, now is the time. I'm not going for original (gen/alt swap also), but do I have a leg to stand on if I don't add them? Was there such a thing as a factory turn signal delete option?

 

What do you mean, "have a leg to stand on?"

If you mean legally, I know some states don't have the use of turn signals in their motor vehicle codes. You can still use the hand signals. You'd have to check your state.


I have a 55 CJ5, it never had them. When I get it road worthy, I am going to add them, because I agree it's a big safety factor and almost nobody driving today looks for your hand signals.

Here is an interesting story:

http://www.secondchancegarage.com/public/history-of-turn-signal.cfm

 

This is what Virginia law says. Check your state vehicle codes to be sure:
B. It shall be unlawful for any person to drive on any highway a motor vehicle registered in the Commonwealth and manufactured or assembled after January 1, 1955, unless such vehicle is equipped with such turn signals on both front and rear.

 

In NH it is mandatory after on vehicles built after 1952, so I was told. That's why my M38A1 is a "1951."

Don't need 'em in my small town, everyone knows where you are going.

 

My 57 didn't have them that I can tell? I believe Texas is based on how the vehicle came from the manufacture, in the year it was built. I had no seat belts, no reverse lights..nada. I am adding belts and turn signals, but not reverse (back-up) lights. I am fairly certain in Texas only the standards that existed during the model year apply on everything (safety, pollution control, etc).

That's why everyone here wants an older titled vehicle! Basically a license to build anything you want, anyway you want it. We have more 38-40 Hot Rod Ford coupes running around than were ever produced..lol, and somehow they all morphed into fiberglass?

 

Well, you can get a Signal Stat 900 or copy of one for about $40, and wiring it is incredibly simple. I'd a lot rather spend an hour wiring it in than hoping I didn't get rear ended every time I went out for a drive.

 

In florida Passenger cars and trucks less than 80 inches in width, manufactured or assembled prior to January 1, 1972, need not be equipped with electric turn signal lamps. you must have brake lights.

 

In kalifornia turn signal none before 1958 ..seat belt ...1968

 

I brought a signal stat 900 home with me today, so it's probably going in. It didn't have back up lights either, but they were "added". Somebody mounted a starter button under the dash, and welded a little piece of flat bar to the side of the shifter. I didn't realize the stick was supposed to be that close to the dash in reverse, but it works.

 

A pair of aircraft landing lights mounted to the rear bumper or cross member, and a switch in/under the dash works. Garaunteed to get the attention of any one with in a mile of the rear of your vehicle.

 

in Wyoming its what was factory installed Mine has nice leds installed in the bumper you can see em for a mile.

 

Seriously tho, how many of todays drivers would know what you were doing with your arm stuck out the side!! Most would think you are crazy!

 

Or someone would steal your watch.

 

i depends on how many fingers yer holdin up

 

Especially if a cop is behind you


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LOL, sad but true!