1956 Headlight switch

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Old October 25th, 2020 | 05:02 AM
  #1  
WHIPOLDS's Avatar
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1956 Headlight switch

I replaced my headlight switch with one from Fusick. After driving with headlights on after about 10 minutes the circuit breaker trips. If I just use parking lights no problem. The old switch did not do this but it was extremely hard to pull it out so I replaced it. I know replacement parts quality is sometimes an issue. Anyone had this problem after replacing the switch? Any suggestion for troubleshooting before trying to get another switch. Might try to find a NOS if possible.
Thanks,
Rick
Old October 25th, 2020 | 06:16 AM
  #2  
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If you can find an NOS you are a lot better off. I went through something similar with the ignition switch on my 54. I got one from Fusick and it didn't work. I sent it back for a refund and found an NOS one on ebay and it is still working. I also got a set of plug wires from Fusick that did not work. Some of their china made stuff leaves something to be desired when it comes to quality. You might try cleaning your old switch.
Old October 25th, 2020 | 07:21 AM
  #3  
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Also check your current draw on the lights, you may be actually drawing a higher amperage tripping the breaker.
Old October 25th, 2020 | 07:34 AM
  #4  
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I got a Borg Warner replacement for the wagon a few years ago and it was fine until you used high beams. Then it started hucklebucking. Internal CB on a lot of new ones is weak.

Took the original apart, cleaned and relubed it and everything worked fine. You may be able to do that with the 56 switch. Try spraying some WD40 in it first, in between the shaft and housing.
Old October 25th, 2020 | 08:45 AM
  #5  
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Thanks for all the suggestions. Couple of NOS switches on ebay now. I will also try to clean up my original.
Rick
Old November 3rd, 2020 | 04:08 AM
  #6  
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I was able to get a NOS headlight switch on ebay. Funny it came from the same town I live in. Will report back if that fixes my problem.
Rick
Old November 3rd, 2020 | 01:41 PM
  #7  
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I'm always looking on ebay for a good one, but the problem with the ones on ebay is that they miss the "money shot". The condition of the rheostat is what I always look for. When mine failed it took me two tries from Fusick to get one that worked decently .
Old November 4th, 2020 | 02:59 PM
  #8  
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I got the switch today and installed it right away. Let the car run for 45 minutes with high beams on. Everything working ok. The problem was the Chinese switch from Fusick. Thanks for all the advise!
Rick
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