T-Series MG Headlight switch

[aroostok]

Recently had problem with overheated headlight switch which I replaced with a new one from Moss. Switch lasted about 5 flips and then fell apart. Put old one back together and has been working but on the way home this evening really started to overheat. If I replaced this switch with something better (like a good rated toggle switch) what would you recommend. Not really interested in putting another Moss switch in after last experience.

 

[Stewart]

Did you put uprated lights in? You might want to look into adding a relay into the headlight circut.

 

[Steve_S]

If two switches are overheating then something else is wrong. Check for loose connections.

 

[aroostok]

Have added uprated lights with relays, one for each side.
Other switch didn't overheat, it fell apart and can't put it back together.

 

[greenBtanner]

Did you also install a heavier gauge wiring harness (as recommended for retrofit uprated lights). Electricity is like fluid. No matter how big the reservoir and the jar, the size of the funnel is what matters when you transfer the juice. Before going any further, I'd recommend you just drop in a specialized shop in automotive electricals and tell the manager you're willing to pay the going rate just to speak with his best technician (chances are he'll be the one and GIVE you the right advice. You'll anyway get your answer within 15 minutes for much cheaper that the cost of trial-and-error switches, relays, harnesses and more important, you will avoid getting stranded because of no lights and the high risk of your dream killer : electrical fire... The cost of seeking professional advice is always far offset by the savings and the driveability.
Bright nights to you.

 

[RickB]

While I agree with the other posters here, to answer one of your questions:

I went to the auto parts place and bought a 12VDC 50Amp toggle switch for one of my MG's because of the same problem. It works fine, but the wiring I used to extend from the original connectors to the old switch to the new switch are of slightly smaller gauge so they heat up while the lights are on. This is a temporary fix for me as I intend to get another LUCAS light switch soon.

Kim (Regularman) has another replacement in his car, I'll bet he would be happy to share pictures of what he did.

 

[Rick_Stevens]

The aftermarket switches from Moss and VB are crap. The good news is that they'll force you to track down any worn connectors because they overheat at the slightest whim, with the plastic warping and causing the pins to move freely inside. The bad news is that they aren't cheap.

And they DO fall apart just from use. Lots of cheap plastic, springs, and grease inside them.