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91 Headlight Problem

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Old Feb 3, 2009 | 10:49 PM
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From: Powder Springs, GA
Default 91 Headlight Problem

Im having a problem with my headlights cutting on and off during driving. The alternator is a year old (its good), battery is good, lamps are new, wiring is good. I was playing with it and the switch on the floor seems to be the problem (what is it called?) I was driving down the road and they cut off and I pushed the switch half way and they cut on and then I let off and they cut back off, whenever they are in high beams they do just fine. Its driving me crazy, people think im flashing them and cops are starting to take notice! Any advice would be appreciated!
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Old Feb 3, 2009 | 10:59 PM
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Have you checked the wiring and contacts at the dimmer switch? The switch itself might be pooped out too.
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Old Feb 3, 2009 | 11:05 PM
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Originally Posted by aliens8mycow
Have you checked the wiring and contacts at the dimmer switch? The switch itself might be pooped out too.
What is this dimmer switch you talk about? Is that the one on the floor or the dashboard?
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Old Feb 3, 2009 | 11:06 PM
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On the floor. You might even try spraying inside it with some contact cleaner to see if it's just dirty.
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Old Feb 3, 2009 | 11:08 PM
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Are the connections inside the button or outside? And how do you take it apart? And its called a Dimmer Switch?
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Old Feb 3, 2009 | 11:19 PM
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Originally Posted by Boogerburns
Are the connections inside the button or outside? And how do you take it apart? And its called a Dimmer Switch?
The "connections" should be inside the assembly, with wires coming out of it. You've got 3 wires (correct me if I'm wrong) coming out of the bottom of it, I think you may have a bad ground... check it and see.
Let us know what you find out... and yes, it's called a dimmer switch.
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Old Feb 3, 2009 | 11:23 PM
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OK, I will probably get to all of this tomorrow, as I have to replace the Speedometer cable and take up the vinyl in that area anyways. Also check that pesky water leak! Might be heading to the junk yard this weekend for a new switch!
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Old Feb 4, 2009 | 02:44 AM
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Yes it's called the dimmer switch and yes several of us have problems with them. My lights flicker too because of it. You should be able to get it new from the parts store, any junkyard one will be just as crappy as the one you have.
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Old Feb 10, 2009 | 11:34 PM
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I looked it up and the ones at autozone are $4.39. Lifetime warranty.
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Old Feb 11, 2009 | 02:18 PM
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Alright guys I got a new switch and it seemed to fix it. Turned lights on and off with the engine off/on and switch between brights and low beams. So it seems to have fixed it, wont know until night driving.
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