Just background info on the truck first:
I removed the back gas tank and fuel pump which means the fuel tank toggle switch is only being used for the fuel gauge and pump to work.

Would it be possible to place the fuel switch somewhere inside the dashboard and put a toggle switch where the fuel switch was to turn off the headlights during the with day, something like this?



I would be doing this to save on power, say i want to go to the drive in late in the fall and I want heat but not use gas, without the headlights on, the radio and heater would work longer.

 

the headlights dont turn on unless you turn them on

 

...unless the truck has daytime running lights.

You could relocate the tank selector switch. If your truck has daytime running lights, which is why you're asking this question (I'm guessing), it should be as simple as finding the wire that powers the relay for the daytime running lights and interrupting power with a toggle switch. No idea on where the daytime running light module is on these trucks...

 

do our trucks have daytime running lights? if so my are broke but i didnt think they had them

 

Canadian models after certain years did.

 

Yeah the later Canadian OBS trucks had the gaytime running lights but I seem to remember that if you want it gone you just disconnect the module (and install a dummy plug with internal jumper?) and they'll work right of the main light switch only.

As for fitting a switch inside the opening where the fuel control is, yes it can be done. Might have to make light use of a Dremel to take off the screw bosses that the fuel switch mounts to, and finding a switch with the correct dimensions might be a pain too. I thought about using that space for something else too, but then I decided to not do the Bronco tank swap since it sits down too low.

 

I know some vehicles turn off the DRL's when you set the parking brake, don't know if OBS trucks do or not. I'm not sure about why you want to do this... doesn't the radio work in the acc position and the DRL's are off? I know the heater fan won't, but you arent going to get any heat unless the engine is running.

 

It's a 1996 F-150. When I have the key in forward position before it turns over, the heater, radio, gauges and daytime running lights come on. And the heater works in that position. Apparently the DRL module that can be unplugged. Does anyone know where it's located in the 1996 F150?

 

To cut out the DRL's simply put your parking brake on before turning your key to ACC. Not sure if this covers your concern but it's simple, cheap and easy. :-)

 

after hours of searching, I found it. I will unplug it tomorrow.


thanks for the suggestions.

 

That video says '04 - '08 F-150...

From your pictures in the OP, you're working on an OBS truck.

Also... yes the heater FAN works with the key in the Run position, but the heater itself won't since the engine has to be running to circulate coolant thru the heater core. It'll blow warm air for about 10 seconds and that's it.

 

Not true, the water will circulate slowly from temperature differentials. It won't last forever, but certainly longer than 10 seconds.

 

In my truck the heater does work when the key is in that position.

This is the diagram for the 1999 but I don't know where it's from or if it's the same layout as the 1996.


(a few minutes later after looking for it)

I cede to extenuating circumstances. while looking for the module, some rust fell on me and as I looked, I found that it fell from near a bolt. I felt it's too dangerous to be under there so nevermind turning off the DRL, The rust is eating at the metal near the bolts. Getting that fixed is now my priority.

 

Bwa ha ha!!

That's just classic. Even if it was a typo...

Daytime running lamps seem so pointless to me. I get that the reason is supposed to make it so other drivers see you easier, but to me, if a driver is going to ignore or overlook or just not see you, it's going to happen, and having your headlights on in broad daylight isn't going to matter.