A while back my hi beams quit working and with darker days appoaching I figured I should resolve this problem.

Before I start testing and taking things apart, I thought I would toss this out for feedback in case someone else had experienced a similar situation.

Lights work on low beam only. When I switch to hi beams there is no light coming from either side. This happened suddenly while driving with my hi beams on. There was no indication, flickering, intermittent, dimming, anything before the lights went out. I switched to lo beam and had light again.

The bulbs are Silverstar (awesome lighting by the way). Other than that, there is nothing different from stock for the lighting system.

Things to check that are obvious:
1. the bulbs but unlikely both would go out at same instant
2. the wiring going to the lights, but again, would they go out at same instant - unlikely
3. the hi beam switch in the handle most likely culprit
4. I dont recall if there is a hi beam relay.

Any feedback appreciated that could save me time and effort re: where to look, what to look for, fixes, test points, voltages, wire routing, etc.

thanks,
-chuck

 

If you have a base or R-1 model (actually anything but touring) and it turns out to be your steering column stalk assembly, I have one that came off a low millage (of course) writing is perfect for $125 +paypal & shipping. Very good price compared to new. I bought it when I was having trouble with mine but my car is a touring so it wasn't what I needed. Jack
PS. you can download the FSM and electrical diagram from the above stickies.

 

Look for a relay. If it was weak it could have failed because of the higher current draw of the silverstars. It's a lot easier to check than a stalk switch.

 

I'm betting your high beam switch contacts need cleaning.

 

Adam,
Have you gotten into your headlight switch before? If so, are we talking major surgery or a relatively easy fix?

thanks,
-chuck

 

Jack,
I may be talking to you about this part if it turns out mine is bad.

thanks,
-chuck

 

I have not repaired this particular switch, so I don't know how difficult it might be to remove. I have repaired/cleaned numerous switches of this type. They almost always just get crap built up on the inside that prevents good electrical contact.

 

Sure thing Chuck. Just. P m me and I can send you some pictures if need be. Jack