why either only front headlights come or dash and running lights only come on never both

10

Asked by jimbj2015 Nov 19, 2015 at 09:27 AM about the 1997 Ford F-150 XL 4WD LB

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Before and after light switch was replaced when head light was turned on the
dash and running lights don't. When I push the light witch in a little the head
lights go off and dash and running lights come on. The brake and signal lights
work either way. Help!

3 Answers

73,330

Suspect a problem at the plug where the switch plugs in. Check the net for a diagram of the plug. You can then bypass the switch with a small piece of wire and determine where the problem is.

73,330

On some Ford's of your vintage, pushing in on the knob releases a pin on the left side which allows the switch to be removed. Remove the switch and you can check the switch itself with a multi meter. At the same time check the conditions of the plugs which attach to the back of the switch. The connecting pins can either be bend, broken, or burnt. Printout a copy of the switch diagram from the net and check accordingly. If, when you bypass the switch via a jumper, the same condition occurs, you can check further back the circuit to isolate the problem. Could be something as simple as a damaged ground wire.

10

So after checking everything I decided to check the new switch and not sure if it was coincidental but the new switch was bad? After purchasing another switch everything is working. Thanks for the tips

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