headlight switch/brake light problem?

[DON IZZO]

I had a problem with my headlight switch the other day. When I pulled out the knob for my headlights it came all the way out (without pushing on the release button). I had to remove the switch and take it apart. I got it back together but now I notice I have an intermittant problem with the brake light on the driver side. Tail light works find. I thought I recalled a post here that said the brake light wiring went through this switch? Should I replace the switch?
Don

[Ed Jennings]

Re: headlight switch/brake light problem?

You don't say what year car it is, but on models I'm familiar with the power originates at the headlight switch and then passes throught the brake light switch and the turn signal switch. See if you have voltage on the brake switch. If you only have a problem on one side, it is probably a problem in the t/s switch. Does the turn signal operate on that side? If you have a C1, the t/s lever must be returned to exact center or you will lose one or both brake lights depending on how far off center it is. Give us a little more info.

[DON IZZO]

Re: headlight switch/brake light problem?

Sorry Ed, The car is a 60 and the problem seems very intermittant. Comes and goes as it sees fit! The brake light condition is only present on the left side and the directional works fine. After reinstallation of the headlight switch last night the brake light is once again working. I'll be damned... ghosts in the machine!?
Don

[Ed Jennings]

Re: headlight switch/brake light problem?

Don, The headlight switch powers both sides of the brake lights, so I don't think that's where the problem lies. You may have a turn signal switch that is going bad, or your cancel cam may not be returning the switch exactly to center. Check the cancel cam first. There may be just enough slop in it that it doesn't return to center consistantly.

[Ed Jennings]

Re: headlight switch/brake light problem?

Don, I looked at the circuit a little closer. The headlamp sw only powers the taillamps. Power for the brake lights (and tail lights) comes off the top fuse on the fuse block and from there goes to the brake light switch for the brakes, the headlamp switch for the tail lights, and to the courtsey lights. Given this info, your problem almost certainly is in the turn signal switch or one of the connections to it.

[Don Izzo]

Re: headlight switch/brake light problem?

Ed, you were right-on with your diagnosis. Problem is in the directional switch. Thanks for the help! you saved me a lot of time!
Don

[Ed Jennings]

Re: headlight switch/brake light problem?

Glad to help.