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Author Topic: Headlight switch on 74 Runabout  (Read 2337 times)

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Offline dennisofaz

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Headlight switch on 74 Runabout
« on: January 27, 2012, 08:45:46 PM »
Has anyone replace their headlight switch on a 74 Runabout?  I just received on in the mail from AutoKrafters and it looks like there is limited access to the switch.  Any help/directions is welcome.  :)

RSM

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Re: Headlight switch on 74 Runabout
« Reply #1 on: January 27, 2012, 10:22:31 PM »
They can be a bugger. I did a 76 years ago...they should all be about the same as far as not much space to get at the switch. Have you done a headlight switch on one of these before?

Offline dave1987

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Re: Headlight switch on 74 Runabout
« Reply #2 on: January 28, 2012, 01:17:34 AM »
Pulling the instrument cluster is a must when I do anything behind the dash on the driver side. Pulling any ducting helps immensely when doing the switches or even the wiper motor.

The switch plug is easier to remove, without damage, if you dismount the switch first, then pull the plug off. If you do it with the switch still mounted to the dash, you will be wrestling it for a little bit. The connectors are on tight and you have to pull straight upwards.

For removing the switch from the dash, you need to pull the knob straight off the shaft, there are no clips or anything, they are pushed on. Once the knob is off, a pair of long needle nose pliers will do the job to get to the inside nut/retainer, but a spanner wrench is best if available. Once you have the nut/retainer off the switch ring comes right off and the switch assembly can be pulled inside the dash for removal.

The same procedure for all years and models.
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Offline dennisofaz

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Re: Headlight switch on 74 Runabout
« Reply #3 on: January 28, 2012, 02:31:07 AM »
I have removed Ford headlight switches before, but never on one in a Pinto.  I have removed an instrument cluster before on a pinto, but i worry that the plastic housing will crumble from old age.  I guess it is time to zoop it up and to go for it. 
thanks for the help! :D

Offline Pinturbo75

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Re: Headlight switch on 74 Runabout
« Reply #4 on: January 28, 2012, 08:29:23 AM »
For removing the switch from the dash, you need to pull the knob straight off the shaft, there are no clips or anything, they are pushed on. Once the knob is off, a pair of long needle nose pliers will do the job to get to the inside nut/retainer, but a spanner wrench is best if available. Once you have the nut/retainer off the switch ring comes right off and the switch assembly can be pulled inside the dash for removal.

The same procedure for all years and models.


not quite correct....

 to remove the knob you need to find the release button behind the dash on the switch... look at your new one and you will see a little steel button... with the knob in one hand and your finger on the switch button... push the button and try to pull the knob..... you will feel when the button hits the right spot as it will sit kinda flush with the switch housing..... the knob and shaft for it will come completely out of the switch housing then and you will be able to easily get to the nut to remove the switch....
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Offline dennisofaz

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Re: Headlight switch on 74 Runabout
« Reply #5 on: January 28, 2012, 01:05:49 PM »
Thanks for all the help!  I really appreciate it! 8)

RSM

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Re: Headlight switch on 74 Runabout
« Reply #6 on: January 29, 2012, 12:49:33 PM »
Where are you located Dennis?

Offline dennisofaz

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Re: Headlight switch on 74 Runabout
« Reply #7 on: January 29, 2012, 01:19:21 PM »
I am located in Tustin California.

RSM

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Re: Headlight switch on 74 Runabout
« Reply #8 on: January 29, 2012, 02:53:37 PM »
Thought u might have been in Az looking at your screen name.

Offline dennisofaz

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Re: Headlight switch on 74 Runabout
« Reply #9 on: January 29, 2012, 03:37:11 PM »
Hi,
 
I used to live in Mesa AZ, moved to Ca in June so that is the reason for the confusion.
 
Thanks for asking, :D
 
Dennis

RSM

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Re: Headlight switch on 74 Runabout
« Reply #10 on: January 29, 2012, 04:00:36 PM »
Ok...makes sense now lol.