Headlight switch removal

[sawbonz]

I think the headlight switch in my '87 Targa is fried. How do I remove it from the dash? Is there a special tool needed to unscrew the fixing nut? Thanks, Jack

[Oh Haha]

There is a special tool but you don't need it. The switch bezel has 2 holes in it. You can use snap ring pliers to turn it.

Insert the plier tips into the holes and turn counterclockwise. Be gentle as it is easy to distort the holes a bit.

[scottb]

The nut on my switch was totally frozen. I had to use a Dremel to destroy the nut. Fortunately, I was able to source a new one to replace it. If you have to destroy yours to get it out, I strongly suggest you find a new one first!

[86 911 Targa]

Disconnect the battery as some of the switch wires are always hot

Also, isolate the cause of failure.

And while you're in there, fuse your dash lights. (3A).

[sawbonz]

How do I remove the knob on the switch?

[Oh Haha]

Either remove the plastic disc with the headlight pic to reveal a small screw or turn the knob counterclockwise to unscrew it from the shaft.

There are 2 versions of the knob setup.

[sawbonz]

Thanks for all the excellent advice. I got it out without any problems.
Jack

[MrJTP]

When you do get the switch out of the dash, stop.
By now I'm assuming the battery is disconnected. If not, do it.

Take some photos from different angles showing which color wire(s) go to which terminal. If your using a phone to take pictures look at each one of the pictures and make sure that you have information in the photo not just colored out of focus blobs. Decide if you can use these photos to let someone else put things back together. Then make a hand sketch of the same thing. There will be numbers on the switch backside. Make notes of what colors (and size if they are different size wires) go to which number contact. Now its time to disconnect everything and put in the new switch.

Don't throw away the old switch! At least not until the new one is installed and all functions are working properly. You should test that before you remount the switch in the dash, just in case.....

Good luck.

[86 911 Targa]

Jack,

Here's the wiring diagram for your '87.

Because the Bentley is a bit deficient in this area,
I made this diagram when I replaced the switch on our '86.



You should also fuse your dash lights.



If your switch is indeed defective, you might want to check eBay for a replacement,
as these little guys are $$$$$$$$$

Good luck,

Gerry

[81SCRosewood]

Gerry,

This is awesome! Is this the same switch used for a 1981?

Thanks, Rich

[86 911 Targa]

Originally Posted by 81SCRosewood

Gerry,

This is awesome! Is this the same switch used for a 1981?

Thanks, Rich

Rich,

I think so, but not absolutely certain.

Is anything connected to your terminal #58?

There are some switches on eBay.


Gerry

[86 911 Targa]

Also, put one of these on your A/C evaporator harness located in the smuggler's box.

[81SCRosewood]

Gerry,

I'll check terminal 58 asap. I pulled my AC last year and made it through the summer without it just fine.

Thanks again ... your diagrams and info are very helpful!!!

Rich

[86 911 Targa]

Originally Posted by 81SCRosewood

Gerry,

I'll check terminal 58 asap. I pulled my AC last year and made it through the summer without it just fine.

Thanks again ... your diagrams and info are very helpful!!!

Rich

Your evaporator may not be fused.

Which is why Pelican sells this relay.

The 87-89 model years fusing was upgraded (from the '86 model year), with footwell blower motor fuses, and front condenser blower motor fuses.

The factory did issue a recall for these upgrades.

The evaporator relay is very easy to replace.

Gerry

[sawbonz]

The new switch arrived today and I installed it. It's great to have headlights again! Everything is working perfectly. Thanks again for all the help.
Jack

[Nico911]

Bringing an old thread back !

Mine works but doesn't dim anymore. I turn it but nothing happens.

Any clue ?

Thanks guys.