Aktunka

Ok, I have a Datsun King Cab 4x4 that has been in my family since 1986 and I am getting a few things fixed up on it since it runs like a champ despite being a rusty POS hehe. I can't help but love it though.

Anyhow, I have a problem where the tailights will not typically turn on when I turn the light switch on. Now, most of the time if I turn the lights back off and then on a few times then the tail lights will come on, but sometimes it takes quite a few times. I am thinking that the switch or contacts for it are messed up. And since I have been working late for the past few weeks I get home after dark and can't take apart the steering column housing to check it out. So, does anyone know if the turn signal / headlight / highbeam arm coming out of the steering coumn is like all one piece? Or even what it would be called or approximate price? If it won't cost an arm and a leg I will just buy new like the few light covers I have had to replace, but not sure on this switch assembly. Also, if you know about this assy, is it just like you unplug a wiring harness from it or will it take some soldering to get it all connected up? Never really did any electrical on cars so not sure if there might be some permanent connections or not.

Thanks for any help!

Don

Warped

The multi-function switch you are referring to is screwed together and has a plug or two in it depending on the options you have. If you are going to replace it, it's fairly straight forward. If you are going to attempt to repair it you will probably only need an emery board, a screwdriver and some patience. Use the emery board to shine up the contacts but make sure you blow out any loose sand from them. Good luck!

Jeff

Rei

Deja Vu.

I had a similar problem back in the day with my 86 720. It turned out that the connections in the wiring harness had started rusting. Check the connector that plugs into the light housing for rust. That may be your problem.

Aktunka

I know this has been a while since I asked about this, but thanks. This was exactly the problem. Picked up some emery boards and found the screw I had been missing that allowed me to get that whole portion of the assembly out of there. Lots of the little burned looking spots from where the contacts had come together over the years. Cleaned em up with the emery board and now it is good as new. Also, as an added benefit, I don't have to fight with the high beams any longer either. They used to come on randomly just as you would be driving. Appears as though the cleanup helped that too. Thanks again.