Headlamp switch broken.

[wolfman]

Today i broke my headlampswitch.
I turned the lights on and i had the knob in my hand.
I put it back in and i was able to turn off the lights.
But now i cant turn then back on.

When i pull the knob it just comes out.
Its a big problem because i cant use my car any more.
There is no daylight when im going to my work and when i come back.

[Tim Cole]

Take hope. The switch is probably not broken, though you obviously have a first-hand look at it.
First, understand the switch itself: underneath the headlamp switch is a small spring-loaded "button". The button controls release and insertion of the shaft/knob.
Second, Try pushing that button in and out while inserting the knob/shaft at the same time. The shaft/knob should "catch" when pushed in all the way into the switch. If the shaft/knob does "catch" when pushed all the way in, then your switch is not broken. You may have to try pushing it in and out a number of times before it "catches."
Third, inserting and releasing the knob/shaft is not easy. If the shaft is "aftermarket" (not made by FORD) or the headlight switch is "aftermarket", then it will be even harder for the knob/shaft to "catch" and release.

Best wishes to you and let me know how it goes.

[wolfman]

I have tried but no luck i think its realy broken. The first times i tried i could feel it cactch and movinga bit , but when i pullen the knob came out again. Now it wont catch at all.

I have to find me a new one.

[Tim Cole]

I am sorry that the switch really is broken. I had hoped it might still work.
In any case, I have a new OEM (original equipment) switch for your car if you want it. Send me a private e-mail message for this.

[wolfman]

Tim you have a private e-mail message.

[Tim Cole]

The NOS Motorcraft Headlight switch will go in the mail to you tomorrow, Monday, 12/5/2011.

[wolfman]

Ok thanks Tim.
I wil let you know whem i have him.

[wolfman]

Hi Tim.

The swicht was delivered last friday.
I was away for the weekend with my wife to Brussel but when ik came home our doughter told me that there was a package delivered for my.

Its already installed in the Tbird know and everything works again like it should.

Thanks verry mutch Tim!

[Tim Cole]

So happy to hear that the headlight switch arrived and also that it works as it should! You can now drive again in the dark! Thanks for letting me know. I do appreciate it! All the best with your Thunderbird.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and family!
tim

[wolfman]

Thanks Tim for you and your family the same.

And i appreciate your help you always know the answers to my questions.
Its good to have a friend like you on the Internet.

Paul

[79Matt]

Hello, I am new to the forum. My son's 78' bird has the same issue. What is the part number for the correct switch? I ordered one off of e-bay, but now the dash lights don't work and the headlights cut off/on after running for 10 -15 minutes. I pulled switches apart and the new one is missing a buss bar inside the switch, so it must be for a different year/application. I really don't want to order another one until I know the correct part #. Thanks!

[79Matt]

I ended up replacing the switch with one from Tim (big thanks) and that fixed the problem. The bird is back on the road!