Headlight Switch? Clean or Replace

[Blue83Cab]

Hi All,

I started my car the other night and the headlights did not come on. I juggled, the switch hi/low beam column and after about 30 times I finally got the lights to come on.

So here is the question, Do just need to clean the switch. ie. take off the stearing wheel, clean it up and spray some contact cleaner or do I need to replace the switch? Has this happened to anyone else, it also might be a loose wire?

Thank you in advance for the assistance.

[wildcat077]

I would suggest you replace... You can pick up a good used stalk for 50-75 dollars and it's an easy install.A $25.00 dollar headlight relay kit would be a wise investment as well !

Anytime you have a bad contact somewhere it could lead to a short and BIGGER problems,especially with these cars !

Cheers !
Phil

[Joe Bob]

Good advice from Phil...take it.

[Blue83Cab]

Thanks Guys, Any idea how I know if it is good or not?

[Joe Bob]

Dash switch or stalk? You could put a meter on them, look for voltage drops, clean contacts and see it it helps or see if they get warm. Best to replace and install a relay kit if there are volts not coming thru.

When they go they go and can cause a fire.

[Blue83Cab]

Thanks, it is the stalk. The headlight switch on the dash seems to be working fine.

[Joe Bob]

It's not an expensive part, and it IS old.....while you are in there you might want to replace the steering wheel bushing. A quick easy fix if not already done.

Pelican Technical Article: 911 Steering Column Bushing Replacement