2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Problem with Light Switch on 1999 Ram 2500

[rpait]

I have recently started experiencing problems with my light switch on my 1999 Ram 2500 and can't find anywhere that addresses the issue. Primarily, when I try to activate the fog lamps they no longer come on unless I pull on the switch beyond its default position for making the fog lights function. When I release the tension on the switch, the lights go off again. Has anyone heard of this, heard of a recall on the switch or experienced the problem personally?



Thanks,



Rich

 

[ralphr]

light switch

I have a 99 3500, but I think the light switches are identical. experianced the same troble, went to the local stealer, and $37 bucks later I had a new switch, only took about 10 min to install! I think I read there was a recall for 1st gen trucks and light switch probs, but can't be sure!:--)

 

[rpait]

Re: light switch

Originally posted by ralphr

I have a 99 3500, but I think the light switches are identical. experianced the same troble, went to the local stealer, and $37 bucks later I had a new switch, only took about 10 min to install! I think I read there was a recall for 1st gen trucks and light switch probs, but can't be sure!:--)

Thanks for the info. I will check with the dealer tomorrow and see what they tell me. Did you replace the switch yourself for did you have the dealership do it?



Rich

 

[DarrellB]

Had the same problem a few years back with my 99. I did the samething as Ralphr, all's you have to do is pop off the dash overlay and take out the light switch and plug in the new one. Real easy to do.



DB

 

[ISBPilot]

try this first........

I don't have fog lights, but my lights started going on and off. Sometimes while going down the road. Pulled the light switch opened it up and cleaned the contacts and put baack together, no more problem. If you have already got a new one, clean the old one and keep it for a spare. Just be careful opening the case, the contacts are little brass or copper rollers that move across the conductors to turn the power on for each set of lights (ie. parking and headlights), several small pieces that can fall out. Good luck.



Todd

 

[ralphr]

light switch

replaced it myself! as was said, real simple, pull off overlay, couple of screws, the hole thing comes out, unplug the old assembly plug in the new one, and you are back in business, whole process about 15 min, be carefull in pulling off overlay and re installing, could have sqeaks if not all done right! (I hate sqeaks!!!). Oo.

 

[rpait]

Just a follow-up note on the light switch problem. I purchased a new switch from the local dealer (that was another experience and story in its own right) and installed it. On my next trip in the RAM I noticed the light switch remained moderately cool to the touch--as opposed to the original switch which was always hot. In fact, it would sometimes get so hot I was afraid the plastic was going to begin melting... it was always very hot to the touch. It had been like that for as long as I have owned the truck, since it was delivered from the factory. It must have been a bad switch all along, and I just assumed it was normal--one of those Chrysler anomalies one begins to accept.

I am sharing this just in case anyone else has noticed a very hot light switch on their RAM (or similar vehicle--it's the same on my '99 Durango) and might be able to get Chrysler to replace it before their warranty ends... or before someone has a serious switch melt-down and subsequent fire in their vehicle.

Thanks, again, to the several who responded to my original question and I hope the above info is beneficial to someone.



Rich

 

[jbone]

Rich, Just short note--lot of guys have got most of the amps off the switch by installing wiring kits with relays straight off battery. I put on the Sport headlights and this wiring--sure will light the nighttime up now!!! R, J. B.



P. S. Then the light switch only has to switch the relay.....