TR2/3/3A headlight switch removal

[dbenichou289]

How do you remove the headlight switch knob? I thought it was just a matter of pushing in the tab on the underside (as shown), but there is no motion to it when I press it in. Is there another trick?

Edit: Not sure why/how the picture was rotated.

 

[trglory]

You are correct, push the tab in with a pointed object and pull the knob out while the tab is depressed. Unfortunately, yours looks to be quite corroded so you will probably need to apply a few doses of penetrating oil to the tab and the shaft of the switch before it pops off.

 

[DavidApp]

The plastic knob is brittle so go easy as you try to get it off. You may end up having to get a new one if there is too much rust built up inside the knob.

David

 

[dbenichou289]

Thanks for both pointers. I have it soaking for now, hoping to save the knob as it matches the rest of them. The patina looks really good on the knobs, it's an aspect I am going to try to save.

 

[sp53]

The older switches come apart and disassemble once you get it out---- look inside for the nut. I would take a picture of the wiring on back. If you are not familiar with the switch, the switch twists to the left to turn the headlights on whereas a straight pull back just turns on the running lights.-- unhook the battery also

 

[DavidApp]

With the knob pulled out there may be enough of the switch shat exposed to allow you to grip it with a pair of needle nosed pliers. Then carefully twist the knob back and forward to loosen it.

David

 

[CJD]

Luckily, if it does break, the entire knob sets are reasonably priced and available...so you can start the patina all over in synchrosity!

 

[DavidApp]

If it breaks you can probable ind one on e bay with similar patina. I do understand wanting to keep the original with the car.

David

 

[dbenichou289]

The reason I am taking it apart is because I have no continuity between the feed side to the parking/headlight sides when the knob is pulled for either/both. Not sure if something broke internally or other issue, but I want to inspect closer to determine issue. I do get continuity between the park/headlight post themselves when knob is pulled completely.

 

[CJD]

These switches are rebuildable. Once you get it apart there will be a nut at the rear that allows you to remove all the innards. With luck it will just need some contact cleaning and re-stretch the spring. If the plastic parts are cracked you will need to replace, unless you can find a doner switch.

 

[mrv8q]

A tip I learned a long time ago, from Geo I believe, to restore the white lettering on the knobs: rub a white Crayola crayon across the head of each knob, then buff off the remaining excess. Did mine 15 years ago and still looks good.

You might have a lot of fun refreshing that gauge panel, I know I did!