Headlight electrical problem.
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Joined: Dec 2010
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Headlight electrical problem.
Recently my '95 RAM Laramie SLT has started developing a taste for light switches.
I've replaced three in the last year and there is no noticeable heat damage to the wires or the connector.
It's certainly something to do with heat, though. When the headlights start flickering, usually all I need to do is open the passenger side window and let some cool air blow around for a few minutes. Not a big deal in Spring, Summer, and Autumn but this morning's commute was cold! (6 degrees and I'm cruising along the Interstate at 70 MPH with the windows down). The faceplate of the switch becomes warm to the touch whenever the lights start acting up.
I read about the recall on the 3500 series for the problem and also looked into the CSB which covers the 1500 & 2500s. From what I read, they're all the same system, same parts, only the 1500 and 2500s are not covered by the recall.
From the looks of it, it would appear that I should install a relay to power the headlights. No biggie, I can figure that one out.
Just for grins, I popped open the PDC this morning to get a look at what's in there. I saw a 40A fuse (relay?) for the headlights.
Is what's in the PDC actually a relay, powering the lamps directly, or is it just a fuse and power is still drawn through the switch?
Thank you.
I've replaced three in the last year and there is no noticeable heat damage to the wires or the connector.
It's certainly something to do with heat, though. When the headlights start flickering, usually all I need to do is open the passenger side window and let some cool air blow around for a few minutes. Not a big deal in Spring, Summer, and Autumn but this morning's commute was cold! (6 degrees and I'm cruising along the Interstate at 70 MPH with the windows down). The faceplate of the switch becomes warm to the touch whenever the lights start acting up.
I read about the recall on the 3500 series for the problem and also looked into the CSB which covers the 1500 & 2500s. From what I read, they're all the same system, same parts, only the 1500 and 2500s are not covered by the recall.
From the looks of it, it would appear that I should install a relay to power the headlights. No biggie, I can figure that one out.
Just for grins, I popped open the PDC this morning to get a look at what's in there. I saw a 40A fuse (relay?) for the headlights.
Is what's in the PDC actually a relay, powering the lamps directly, or is it just a fuse and power is still drawn through the switch?
Thank you.
Administrator
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 87,549
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From: Clayton MI
The headlight switch provides ground path for the circuit. The ground for the headlights is supposedly on the instrument panel right center support. Check it to ensure that it is clean, and tight.
Welcome to DF.
Welcome to DF.