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]

broken headlight switch

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]

Headlight switch

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]

Headlight switch

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]

Congratulations

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!