I am in the process of redoing my interior, specifically a dash cap. I was trying to remove the stem from the light switch (by pushing the little button in back) so that I could test fit the cap. When I couldn't get the stem out, I started working on the headlight switch from the left side with the dash pulled partly out. The switch was pushed/pulled several times during the process. Then I noticed light smoke from the area. Suddenly no lights. I checked the fuse box and found the tail light fuse (20A) was blown. Replaced it and tried headlights again. In the mean time I have noticed scourch marks on the plastic connector attached to the headlight switch. When I tried the switch after changing the fuse, it blew the fuse again.

I was wondering if I have cooked the headlight switch. But, would that also cause the 20A fuse to blow ? I read about a ground strap to the headlight switch. I don't see how this would blow a fuse, but who knows. I read that there is a circuit breaker in the headlight switch. Is there anything I should do to this ? Any way to reset it ?

BTW, have never had headlight problems before. I obvisously blew the mission on this one. Replace the headlight switch first ???? Any suggestions are appreciated.

Thanks ...

Bob

 

Replace the light switch. When you turn on the headlights the tail lights also come on. On my first 73 I had issues with the lights not coming on with the switch pulled out. One day I smelled the burned electrical odor coming from the dash. Killed the battery and pulled the dash, you guessed it, the light switch had a short in. Replaced the switch and no problems. One of the first things I did on my current '73 was to replace the light switch. It was giving me problems, but it was old and I didn't want any problems.
Roger

 

What car do you have what year

 

Sorry, I forgot to mention is is an '80.

Bob

 

Helps everyone if you fill out your profile.

 

I trust you disconected the battery before touching the dash?

 

Unfortunately, I did NOT disconnect the battery before I started. I have, however, learned my lesson. Last night I installed a battery disconnect knife switch.

You can teach an old dog new tricks, but then they are still an old dog !

Bob