Headlights won't work -- help!

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May 19, 2008 | 08:42 PM

76CamperSpecial

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Joined: May 2008

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Headlights won't work -- help!

Trying to work out the kinks on my '76 F250. Here's the situation -- all of the other exterior lights work, including the parking lights, turn signals, tail lights, hazards, etc. Headlights don't work and the dash backlight doesn't work. The shifter, heater and radio backlights are functional.

I initially thought the headlights were bad, but new headlights didn't help. I wouldn't think it's a fuse issue as the side marker lights that appear to be tied into the same wiring pigtail are functional.

Any suggestions? I know there were some alterations to my factory wiring with some external spotlights and other items, but I'm guessing this is something obvious that I'm missing.

Thanks,

Rick

May 19, 2008 | 11:27 PM

brentleedragon

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Joined: May 2006

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From: Spokane, Washington

check all fuses, have you installed a cd player at all? a lot of people install the hot in run wire to the ground for the lights and blow the fuse. Your best bet is to replace the fuses as over time they get old and wear out. I had to replace all mine. Check groundings for the lights.

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y24...agon/fuse2.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y24...agon/fuse1.jpg

May 20, 2008 | 12:28 AM

ihateminimumwage

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Joined: Oct 2005

Posts: 2,282

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From: Oregon

If you're not getting no dash lights or headlights, there's a good chance it's your headlight switch that went out. I had the same problem a while back, I can't remember what the test procedure was though. Search around the electrical forums a bit, and you'll find your answer.

May 20, 2008 | 03:23 AM

LxMan1

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Joined: Dec 2001

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From: Louisville,Ky.

Also, step on the dimmer switch. My 77 used to get bumped sometimes and the headlights would not come on.

That wouldn't effect the dash lights though.

May 20, 2008 | 04:12 PM

NOCO77

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Joined: May 2007

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From: Northern Colorado

Dash lights are probably just burned out or poor socket connection to the printed circuit, but like Lx said, don't overlook the dimmer switch for the headlight issue - that was my problem with similar issues as you have. Of course, the light switch itself can always be the culprit, too! Aren't these electrical problems on these old trucks fun?!

May 20, 2008 | 07:49 PM

hp246

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Joined: Jun 2007

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If your headlights and dashlight (meaning lights to gauges) are out, 80% chance it is a fuse. It is also possible that your dimmer switch has gone bad. They are only a couple of bucks, and if it not a fuse, would be the second thing I would check.