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81 Defroster Switch

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Old Oct 23, 2008 | 05:07 PM
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Default 81 Defroster Switch

The defroster switch on my 81 works, but turns itself off after about 2 minutes. When I turn it on again it only lasts about 30 seconds. I remember seeing something about replacing a resistor a few years ago, and was wondering if anyone has a schematic or any info on repairing the switch.
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 06:16 PM
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http://iotech.no/corvette/projects/r...efogger-timing
I found this for 80, I know the switch was changed in 81, but does anyone know if the internals are the same?
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 07:06 PM
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Originally Posted by Ben Taylor
The defroster switch on my 81 works, but turns itself off after about 2 minutes. When I turn it on again it only lasts about 30 seconds. I remember seeing something about replacing a resistor a few years ago, and was wondering if anyone has a schematic or any info on repairing the switch.

It's designed to shut off once the ice /snow (you use your vette in snow?) is melted. If you are just testing it with no snow/ice on window, then it should shut off within 2 minutes so as not to burn the heater wires in the glass. I think it is operating as designed.
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 07:20 PM
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I think it gets cold where Ben lives. Ben...Aren't you up aorund Pollock Pines?
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 07:36 PM
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Originally Posted by Jon S
It's designed to shut off once the ice /snow (you use your vette in snow?) is melted. If you are just testing it with no snow/ice on window, then it should shut off within 2 minutes so as not to burn the heater wires in the glass. I think it is operating as designed.
Right now I've been using the defroster when it's 50 degrees and the windows are fogged up. When I got the car I had no problems defrosting the windows, because it stayed on much longer than it does now. The defroster still does it's job, but I have to constantly flip the switch for it to work, and after about 20 times it won't turn on unless I leave it off for a while. As long as you know how to drive in the snow, the vette does pretty good.
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Old Nov 7, 2008 | 06:46 PM
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check your fuse. all 80-82 have the problem where the defrost draws too many amps. The fuse will melt in the fuse panel.
For some reason (I have yet to find out why) the fuse melts and does not blow out.
The switch may be the problem. They are discontinued and can not be purchased.
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