Headlight switch problem

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Apr 29, 2016 | 07:34 PM

Gregs66

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Headlight switch problem

So I was having a problem where my instrument panel lights weren't working on my 66' F100 and while looking at my headlight switch, it sparked and started smoking. I bought a new "BWD" brand switch from O'Reilly Auto Parts and it appeared to be the same part. However, when I put the handle in after installing the part, it wouldn't go in all the way. It appeared to be spring loaded and pushed the handle back out a small amount (the original didn't do that, but it fell apart while uninstalling it, so who knows). When I wasn't pushing the handle in as far as it would go, my taillights remained on and the instrument lights were on. If I pushed the handle in, they would all shut off. I thought I had a defective switch, so I replaced it with another BWD switch with the same result. Everything else works fine. I spoke with a rep from BWD and they said that they have sold thousands this year and this has not been a reported issue. Has anyone here had any experience with these switches and is it possible that this switch won't work for my truck? Are these symptoms of another issue? Any help or insight would be greatly appreciated.

Apr 30, 2016 | 12:40 AM

62fordF250

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From: Western Montana

Hi Greg,
Have you tried moving the switch through the positions before you install it in the truck? You might not be seating the **** and rod all the way, or maybe it isn't sticking out far enough from the dash to allow the detent to keep the switch in the off position. Give it a try without mounting it to the dash and let us know how that worked out.

Apr 30, 2016 | 10:23 AM

Gregs66

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Thanks for the response! I did think that was an issue originally and when I removed the first one, I put the rod in and it didn't go in any further. I am considering ordering one from another company and see if that makes a difference, but didn't want to waste my time if there is something else I'm missing.

Apr 30, 2016 | 11:49 AM

daveengelson

Lead Driver

Joined: Aug 2003

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From: Boulder Creek, Ca

Not familiar with the aftermarket replace'mt switches? The original: to remove the rod/**** requires pressing the release spring, to install just insert the rod/****, possibly need to rotate handle slightly for it to fully seat.

Curious if there's a release spring on the replacement switch; if so,whether one needs to press the release spring for the rod/handle to fully seat??

Apr 30, 2016 | 02:55 PM

NumberDummy

Ford Parts Specialist

Joined: Nov 2006

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From: Simi Valley, CA

Auto parts store probably sold you the wrong headlight switch, as there are 3 different types. Plus there are 2 different lengths of the **** and shaft.

1961 F100/1100: C1DF-11654-A .. Headlamp Switch (Motorcraft SW-297) / Use with C1TF-11661-B .. **** & Shaft that is 2 1/4" long.

1962/64 F100/600: C2DZ-11654-A .. Headlamp Switch (Motorcraft SW-303) / Use with C1TF-11661-B .. **** & Shaft (same specs as above).

> 1965/66 F100/600: C5TZ-11654-C .. Headlamp Switch (Motorcraft SW-718) / Use with C3TZ-11661-D .. **** & Shaft that is 3 3/16" long. <

May 1, 2016 | 01:42 PM

Gregs66

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There is a button on the bottom of the switch and you do have to depress it to get the button shift to lock into place...twisting it makes no difference.

May 1, 2016 | 01:51 PM

Gregs66

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I ordered another switch using the part number you gave me through another parts store and different manufacturer. Hopefully I'll get the right one..thanks for the help!