1st Generation Specific 1979-1985 Discussion

How do I replace/repair headlight switch on column?

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Old 10-10-2008 | 01:46 PM
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Melikoth's Avatar
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I've been having trouble with my lights, when low beams are on, only driver side lights up. When high beams are on, both are lit up. However, when I switch from high beams back to lows both headlights turn off.



I had asked before about this and was told it was the switch on the column. I got around to tearing off the plastic covers today and I've got no idea how to take this thing apart. Looks like I need to take the steering wheel off though to remove it.



Anyone done this before and could shed some light on it?
Old 10-10-2008 | 03:41 PM
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you might wanna just make sure that the headlight isnt burned out.



the switch is pretty easy. the steering wheel does come off, its easy. horn cover pops off, the nut is 21mm you can use the same wrench as the wheels. leave the nut on a couple of turns, and rock it back and forth, till it pops free. if you take the nut off, and the wheel pops free, its suprising...



the switch then slides off, i think theres a screw/hose clamp deal that needs to be loosened.



once its out the light switch can be unbolted from the assembly, and you can replace it, or try cleaning the contacts.



i think if you were clever you could unbolt the switch without taking it off, but and its been a while, there are a couple spring loaded ball bearings that you dont want to drop, thats what gives it that 80's sony click feel.



it was actually harder to write this that it was to do it
Old 03-13-2009 | 09:02 PM
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I know it's been quite a while since I first posted this, but with the recent bursts of warm weather I was able to get out and mess with it some.



The low beam light being off was definitely due to a bulb issue. I replaced it and now both lights work fine on low beams.



Though when I switch back down to low from high, they still cut out, so it looks like I'll need to replace the switch as well. Thanks for the instructions on how to do it.
Old 03-14-2009 | 01:42 PM
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have a look at your old switch, its pretty obvious why it fails, you MAY be able to clean the contacts and get it to work
Old 03-15-2009 | 11:57 PM
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I'll have a look at it.



I know the contacts on the power window switch get nasty and quit letting me roll the window up too.
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