Author Topic: MkI headlamp switch problem  (Read 3139 times)

April 10, 2012, 10:16:20 pm

mystery3

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MkI headlamp switch problem
« on: April 10, 2012, 10:16:20 pm »
So my headlamp switch has been acting a bit weird and is getting worse. Basically sometimes when I pull the switch the dash lights go on but the head lights do not, give it a little wiggle, they usually come on but once in a while if I hit a big bump or railroad tracks they will turn off or flicker. It's both lights, connections at the headlamps look good.

I'm basically wondering if I can open up the switch and clean the contacts or anything to avoid buying a new one?

Vehicle in question is a 1981 Caddy, late westy style switch I believe, pull type just left of the speedo.

Reply #1April 10, 2012, 11:04:40 pm

fatmobile

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Re: MkI headlamp switch problem
« Reply #1 on: April 10, 2012, 11:04:40 pm »
 I've been relaying all of my headlight setups to avoid this.
 I didn't have any luck trying to clean the contacts on my Golf headlight switch.
 Maybe more luck with the MK1.
Tornado red, '91 Golf 4 door, with M-TDI 12mm pump, south bend clutch, VNT-15 turbo, 02A trany
MK4s: 2000 TDI jetta, 2003 TDI wagon, 2000 golf 2.0 gasser.
'84 Rabbit with 1.7TD KY block pistons bored to 80mm, VNT-15
'84 GTI with stock 1.6TD starion intercooler.

Reply #2April 11, 2012, 12:09:15 pm

8v-of-fury

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Re: MkI headlamp switch problem
« Reply #2 on: April 11, 2012, 12:09:15 pm »
The are like $5 no??

Relaying may help.. But not if the power leaving the switch won't try on the headlights.. it won't kick the relay over either.

New switch. its probably original.

Reply #3April 11, 2012, 09:44:17 pm

mystery3

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Re: MkI headlamp switch problem
« Reply #3 on: April 11, 2012, 09:44:17 pm »
They're like $25 but you're probably right.

With some parts a good cleaning is all that's needed and the cleaned/rebuilt oem one will outlast the aftermarket stuff so I was hoping.