2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission No highlights

[Kalaehina]

Well I'm getting a double whammy here, first my A/C, now when I go to put my highlights on, they come on as I'm holding the turn signal lever back but as I release it the headlights go off, then I flick it again and the highlights come on as the lever is back then the lowlights will come on again??? Is there a highlight switch in the turn signal assembly that may be causing this? I'd rather try the easy stuff first. Thanks for any help.

 

[GAmes]

I'm sure that your milti-function switch (dimmer) is bad. Not a difficult job, but it is held in place by tamperproof screws. I drilled the nubs out of the center enough to remove them with a scredriver, then replaced them with regular bolts. I think the one for a 97 is about $32 IIRC so yours may cost about the same.

 

[Kalaehina]

thanks for the info, where is the dimmer located? This not the headlight switch is it?

 

[Missouri Mule]

The Multi-function switch is located inside of the steering column ( at the other end of the turn signal lever). It does several things such as turn signals, Brite lights/low lights(hilights, high beams/low beams), windshield wiper (intermitten and constant), windshiled washer flluid flasher and also there is a feature for signaling vehlices ( safe to pull in front ... ). You push the turn signal lever forward and it will turn the headlights on when you release it will turn off headlighs ( headlight switch must be turned off). This is called Headlamp Optical horn.

 

[Kalaehina]

Thanks for the info, I saw some on ebay, I'll go have a look. Thanks again!

 

[Garlic]

My 96 has a diificult time with the headlights too. I remember some time ago there was a recall on the headlight switch getting too hot and failing. I was too lazy to get it fixed (Wished I had it fixed) I wiggle the switch and eventually it will come on and stay on.

 

[cruiser_2]

One other place to look... I have seen on multiple vehicles that the power wire to the connector on the multi function switch as backed out or is mostly broken off and that is why when you move the lever it works for a short time. Dodge has problems with this item as the big red wire comming in on terminal 1 is too short and continues to pull and eventually work hardens with the vibration that these trucks produce. Take a CLOSE look ath those before you replace the multifunction switch

 

[Kalaehina]

thanks! I'll check that out first.