Help with headlights, I can't drive at night now

[RADAR1797]

Howdy all,

Having a bit of trouble with my truck. A few weeks ago I noticed that my headlights were not on. Upon further inspection, my parking lights were on, just not my headlights. I checked out the high beams, which have two settings on, and flash (just pull the handle towards me and it stays on until I release it) and they worked fine. Well I found out that my handle was not connecting correctly, because when I switched from high-beam to low-beam, low-beam was now on and stayed on. Today I have total low-beam failure. This is where I am at:

1. Turn on headlights--parking lights turn on, but low-beams do not.
2. Switch to high-beam on--parking lights on, but no high-beams
3. Pull handle towards me to turn on high-beam as long as I hold it--High-beams come on
4. Switch handle to left or right turn-signal (Down or up) and turn signals come on.
5. I checked the fuses for low-beams, high beams and headlights in general, all were good.

Any ideas. I suspect what is wrong, but I am looking for some inputs.

-RADAR

[Ed_S]

What kind of truck, Radar?

Sounds like a bad switch to me. If it's a Ford, you've got two switches. On / off is on the dash, while hi / lo is in the column, actually it's part of the multifunction switch. ]That's the one I'd bet is bad, from the symptoms.

Anything other than Ford & I'm lost - haven't even been inside anything else for a decade or so...

Ed

[Toadman]

Sounds like the combo switch or headlight switch contacts themself went out. Can you disconnect the battery, pull off the column cover(s) and hit theswitches a little contact cleaner? It's only a start, but may save you big $$. Bah, Ed beat me.

[RADAR1797]

Ed_S,

It is a F-150 '97. The more and more I think about, I think it is the multifunction switch. I guess I will go to dealership and get them to put it in.

-RADAR

[Ed_S]

Radar, the switch should run about $80, as I recall, and it's an easy part to change. Two screws hold the upper & lower column covers on, then two bolts for the switch.

Of course, "easy" is a relative term - you'd never believe how many people call about a part, then ask "is this something I can do myself?"
How the heck am I supposed to know that??
LOL... I know folks that could overhaul an engine blindfolded - also know some that need help checking tire pressure!!!

BTW, if you've time to wait, I could get you a deal on the part. Couldn't ship it 'till Monday, though.

[RADAR1797]

Ed_S,

I really appreciate the offer, but I cannot wait. I will try to get it at the dealership tomorrow (heck I build my own computers, a switch should be easy, eh?) If they do not have it, I will post here Thanks!

-RADAR

[Ed_S]

Well, if there's ever anything you need, LMK

BTW, here's our site, which I administer!
Suntrup Ford Parts Online

...and my toy, which is a '97, same as yours!

[fritz the cat]

You might want to check your local NAPA or other auto parts store. They have replacement parts for a lot less then the dealership prices, and good installation advice to go with it.

[Brainchild]

That switch shouldn't be a big deal Radar.And they should have it at the parts suppliers which will be much cheaper than Ford Dealerships
Good Luck

[Ed_S]

Guys, the bit about dealer part prices being too high isn't really true as much anymore. I run into things all the time that we're cheaper on, Always call, you may be surprised!

What's happened is that over the years, the aftermarket prices have inched up because those suppliers KNOW that few "do-it-yourselfers" even call a dealer...

Also, only buy from a reputable chain which carries quality. Napa & CarQuest are good bets.
Stay away from the cut-rate junk (you know the places), poor quality is no savings!

-----
BTW, Radar - that switch is Ford part # Y85Z13K359CA, and the list price is $80.71
Don't be afraid to ask for a discount, that's a Motorcraft item, and as such carries a high profit margin - he can afford to knock off 20%, easy. Heck, tell him you can get it from a friend in St Louis for $54.48 (plus shipping), maybe he'll match it...