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Recently purchased 63 corvette convertible. When I step on the floor dimmer switch for the high beams the lights go out then may slowly flicker off and on. Is the dimmer switch? Replace it? Or something else. Know wiring was previously replaced but not much else
Most likely the dimmer switch. If you take the connector off you can use your VOM meter to check the continuity in each position of the switch. You can also check the voltage available, but I would go to the local parts shack and get a new switch and replace it.
Just a suggestion, but a cheap VOM (Volt Ohm Meter) meter / multimeter or a cheaper test light for Harbor Freight or other big box and local stores can make your electrical problems a lot easier to troubleshoot and will save you money with an investment of less than $20. While you are out buying the dimmer switch, you might consider getting one or the other test instruments.
The electrical experts here rely on readings taken with a VOM to help troubleshoot problems. I own 3 VOMs as I need a lot of help. You can tell me to back off and I will if you feel pressured.
Ron
DMMD63 - Welcome to the Corvette Forum. R66 called it and it's just about the easiest thing you'll ever have to fix on you early Vette.
Mike T - Prescott AZ
Just a suggestion, but a cheap VOM (Volt Ohm Meter) meter / multimeter or a cheaper test light for Harbor Freight or other big box and local stores can make your electrical problems a lot easier to troubleshoot and will save you money with an investment of less than $20. While you are out buying the dimmer switch, you might consider getting one or the other test instruments.
The electrical experts here rely on readings taken with a VOM to help troubleshoot problems. I own 3 VOMs as I need a lot of help. You can tell me to back off and I will if you feel pressured.
Ron
Thanks I have one but always appreciate any advice!
If that doesn't work, I would be suspect of your headlight switch circuit breaker. I talked to a well respected member of the forum about it and he said that headlight switch circuit breaker is the only thing that will cause that problem. Have you recently replaced your headlight bulbs for ones that draw more current than standard? This would cause the ripping of a regular circuit breaker. Either way it's inside the headlight switch.
Last edited by Panama 58; Mar 25, 2022 at 08:34 PM.
If that doesn't work, I would be suspect of your headlight switch circuit breaker. I talked to a well respected member of the forum about it and he said that headlight switch circuit breaker is the only thing that will cause that problem. Have you recently replaced your headlight bulbs for ones that draw more current than standard? This would cause the ripping of a regular circuit breaker. Either way it's inside the headlight switch.
R66 is bad here, the flashing after total shut off indicates a circuit breaker that is only in the light switch. Forgive me for being less attentive. Go with the light switch as it has the bi-metal breaker in it. Probably an aftermarket switch from what I have read on this forum.. Sorry.
My bad habit for reading through the posts a bit too quickly. I stopped reading just before you mentioned the 'flickering off and on', so just like R66, time for a reversal...time to check out the headlight switch after all.
Mike T - Prescott AZ
Guys, 65GGVert deserves the credit. He is the expert that asked that I pass along the correct solution to the OP's original question. I don't know of anyone that is consistently more correct when it comes to helping forum members resolve their electrical issues on these cars. Thanks Jack.
Some repro switches are nearly exact copies of the originals except that the bi-metallic strip breaker is weak. I've toyed with the idea of grinding out the bad strip and tack welding in an encapsulated breaker. So far, I've not been energetic enough to try it since I did find a good replacement. The pict does not show the heating discoloration at the narrow spot very well but it is there.
C2 dimmer switch
