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1987 - 1996 F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks 1987 - 1996 Ford F-150, F-250, F-350 and larger pickups - including the 1997 heavy-duty F250/F350+ trucks

Headlight relays

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Old Apr 13, 2012 | 10:22 AM
  #1  
hairyboxnoogle's Avatar
hairyboxnoogle
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Headlight relays

Hey guys, we just picked up a new work truck and sometimes the headlights will stay on, not sure if dim or brights. I am thinking its one of the headlight relays sticking. If you guys have any other thoughts let me hear em.

Also, and more important, where ARE the headlight relays in a 97 F-250?

EDIT: Gunna throw in some more info so there is no confusion. It is a early 97 F-250 heavy duty, 460, e40d 4x4 super cab long bed, etc. etc. For all intensive purposes i could call it our 94 by appearance. I just noticed the forum breaks the years down weird.
 
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Old Apr 13, 2012 | 11:26 AM
  #2  
UNTAMND's Avatar
UNTAMND
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Joined: Jul 2009
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From: Lansdale, PA
No headlight relay. It's all in the switch.
I'd say your wire harness is melting. Happened to me in my 95. And my 94 mustang almost burned because of it.
Mustangs had a recall. Not sure if the trucks did.
 
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Old Apr 13, 2012 | 12:12 PM
  #3  
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Midnite1987
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From: Edmonton AB, Canada
Club FTE Silver Member

Is it happening with the key off or Key on?
 
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Old Apr 13, 2012 | 09:02 PM
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From: Missouri - Lake of the Oz
"Relays" for longer [bulb] life...

These trucks did not come with headlight relays but you can install a kit available from a number of sources. Using the headlamp and dimmer switches only as controls for the smaller amount of current to operate the relays offers three advantages:

1. Longer switch life,
2. Brighter headlamps,
3. Less likelihood of setting your truck on fire due to overheated wiring components.

These kits are not that expensive and are easy to install. Since you are already experiencing problems changing out both the headlamp and dimmer switches would be very much in order. Happy wiring!

dn.
 
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