How do you remove the headlight switch?

[Emission]

I need to replace my headlight switch this evening, and am unsure of how the old switch is removed.

I was able to pull the knob off, and it exposed a nut that is threaded to keep the knob in place (so you can twist it to adjust the dash brighness). That nut had nothing to do with keeping the switch in the dash. Now, I need to pull the switch.

It is obvious it goes out from the back, but how do I loosen it? Do I connect the wires after I install the new switch, or can I connect them then put the switch in?

[Rick Lee]

It's been a while since I had mine apart, so I'm rusty on this. But I'd be sure to make a good color-coded diagram of this before you start pulling wires off the back. I believe the large dial-like shield on the dash around the switch is threaded and needs to be unscrewed. Then the switch should push back and out.

[Argo]

Just working from memory here, but I believe there is a threaded ring around the base of the switch in the front that holds it tight against the dash (?). You have to remove the knob to fit the switch through the hole in the dash. You do remove the switch from behind; push it through the dash and work it down and under the dash lip so you can access it from the front. Swap the wires one at a time so you get them reconnected correctly. Disconnect the battery when you do this to avoid any accidental shorting when you swap the wires. I took the time to draw a quick diagram before I did this to make sure I got the wires reconnected correctly. Pretty easy job all things considered.

Argo
88 Targa

[Jdub]

Pull knob by inserting small drill through hole in headlight switch shaft (pull knob to see) and c-clockwise knob while holding drill bit dead still. Knob off, remove thin circular nut. Voila!

John

[Emission]

Thanks guys!

Once again, everyone here has been a valuable resource...

[Doug Zielke]

You'll note the retaining collar has 4 small holes on the face of it.
You need a suitable pin wrench to fit 2 of those holes, then turn the retainer off C.C.W. with the wrench.
You're dealing with soft plastic here, so don't be too rough.

[scottb]

Is there any way to get the switch out without the special tool? I don't have the tool, and I'm in the middle of trying to replace my high beam switch, which wires into the back of the headlight switch.

Thanks for the help!

[Doug Zielke]

The tool isn't that "special".
I used a K-D circlip removal tool....the kind that comes with a little assortment of interchangeable tips. It cost $10, and you will need it for other work on the car anyway.

[scottb]

Doug: Is that something I can get at the local auto parts store? Pep Boys, Autozone, etc.?

Thanks for the advice.

Scott

[Doug Zielke]

Yes!
Ask for the tool that comes with a little box of interchangable tips.
It should have a couple of tips with a 90 degree bend that will work perfectly.

[scottb]

Doug: You da man! (Even if you do drive an SC!)

Thanks for your help. Off to the store now!

[tryan]

i get the oldest fork in the kitchen and make one.

[Emission]

I used a pair of needle nosed pliers. Open them wide and they will work fine.

[scottb]

I bought a set of circlip pliers. Try as I might, even with the pliers, I was not able to remove the plastic retaining nut. Ultimately I used my Dremel tool to cut it out. I've looked at our host's catalog, and the competition's, and I don't see the part listed.

Does anyone know where I can get one, or have an extra they'd be willing to part with? Please let me know.

Thanks.