2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Where's best place to get headlight switch?

[charlessmith]

Chrysler engineering (or lack thereof) has struck again.

My 97's headlight switch is again failing to always light the tail lights.



Where is the least expensive place to get an OEM headlight switch?



I know I can get a NAPA generic headlight switch and rig it up, and it will probably last a lot longer, but I'm going to stick with the OEM switch and install a relay on the truck tail light circuit.



The original problem was that the trailer light connection (in the bed for a camper) wasn't wired through the trailer relay. It is now, but I think the contact damage was already done. #@$%!

 

[JLandry]

I bought a replacement headlight switch at Rockauto.com under the Airtex brand name and it was identical to the OEM original in every way, right down to the same markings and inspection stamps on the back. It works perfectly.



TDR members get a 5% discount at Rockauto.com by entering "TURBODIESEL2211" in the box marked "How did you hear about us?" on the checkout screen.



John L.

 

[DIESELWRKS]

page 26 on LMC Truck Parts: Chevy Chevrolet Blazer S10 GMC Jimmy S15 Ford Bronco Ranger Pickup Pick Up Accessories/Catalogs

 

[charlessmith]

Thanks guys!

I ordered a switch from Rockauto, total minus discount including shipping was $77. 30 It looks like an exact replacement, we'll see when it gets here.

The switch including shipping from LMC Truck Parts is $108, and I can't tell from the picture if it's really an exact replacement since it looks like it includes a plug and wire splice pieces. On the other hand, if it's not an exact replacement it might hold up better than the OEM switch!

 

[1tuffram]

Has anyone purchased parts from LMC truck parts? How's the quality of the parts?

 

[BK]

LMC +1

got a headlight switch for my 99 CTDRam myself, worked perfect, fit perfect, couldn't tell the difference from the OEM.
Also bought some replacement bulbs for the factory fog lamps. . again perfect.

I want to get the better bulbs the sell for the headlights and the relay / harness set up for the headlights. No reservation, just funds have gone to many other things.

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

When the headlight switch died on my '98 I just went to Auto Zone and got a new one for like $18, it was an exact replacement. Just had to swap over the knob & shaft which takes all of 10 seconds. Quality looked to be as good as the original and no problems after a year.

EDIT. . . found what you need on Auto Zone, same part number for '96 thru '98
AutoZone.com | | Headlight Switch | HEADLIGHT SWITCH

 

[Grizzly]

I'd go to the Dealer for one.

 

[rrl989]

I replaced mine with the OEM from the dealer, was pricey, but I never had the failure again. JMO, I would not want an aftermarket switch replacing an OEM that handles as much DC current it does.

 

[WDaniels]

charlessmith,

The biggest reason that the headlight switch fails is because it overheats due to the light wires and the high current draw. There is a Service Bulliten on the 96 abd 97 3500's for this very thing. This problem existed all the way through the 2nd generation style of a lot of their trucks. They installd a resistor(?)to keep the headlight switch from overheating.

When your switch goes out again, and it will. Go to SB 814(? or 811) and buy the headlight switch that they specify. It cost me 42 and change for it a couple of years ago. My headlight switch has gone out 5 times and 3 of them it completely slagged down, and after this SB upgrade the switch does not even get warm. I do not dim the lights as this will also heat up the switch excessively. It also helps I've converted the entire truck to LED's with the exception of the little green dash lights. Hope this helps.

WD