1988 Ford Ranger XLT
2.3L, 5sp, 4x2, Super-Cab
~170,000mi

Hello all, I know I haven't been here in quite a while. I don't often have "internet time".

I have a problem with my "running lights" not turning on when I pull the switch out on the dash next to the steering column.

There are 3 positions to this switch: (it is supposed to do the following)

POS 1) IN - All lights off
POS 1a) Turn - Bright or Dim dash lights
POS 1b) Turned full - Cargo / Cab light
POS 2) Pulled 1/2 out - Running lights on only
POS 3) Pulled all out - All lights on

Mine does this:
POS 1) IN - all lights off
POS 1a) Turn - Bright or Dim dash lights
POS 1b) Turned full - Cargo (YES) / Cab light (NO, could be burned out)
POS 2) Pulled 1/2 out - All lights even dash lights off
POS 2a) I can get the interior / Running lights on but it is touchy
POS 2b) Play with it between 2 & 3 until I get both on at the same time
POS 3) Pulled all out - Headlights on only

Is this common for the "pull switch" going bad, or is there something else going on here.

I have had an issue with the headlights before where I thought the switch in the column was bad, but it turned out to be the plastic on the wire harness plug is melted a bit, causing no contact between the harness plug, and switch contacts. I used pliers to chip off some of the melted plastic, and it has been fine for a while, but IDK if this could be more of the same problem. I haven't opened the column again to check.

 

It is common. Basically the switch is high resistance, so whenever your headlights are on, it gets overloaded and overheats. Over time, this causes poor connections and can be a fire hazard. You can fix it for now by just replacing the switch, but int he long run, installing a headlight relay harness not only takes the strain off the switch, it also makes your headlights brighter and safer.

 

I guess that is the same thing that happened to the switch in the column? Overheated the plug and melted the plastic.

I am really good with the mechanical side of things, but I am fairly basic when it comes to electronics. You mentioned a relay harness, is there a "HOW TO" on this, or an aftermarket part for plug-n-play? I wouldn't mind brighter headlights as mine are not all that bright with good bulbs in them.

 

LMC Truck carries a relay harness. I put one on my '91 Ranger. It is plug-n-play. It also make the nightime much brighter. It sounds like this is just the thing you need. While you are at it, LMC also carries the light switch you need.