auto_editor

Pop the hood on (I assume) any Oldsmobile of my 'Cruiser's type and a little light should come on. I'll add an "I assume" to this, too, as no matter what I try--from new bulbs to wire-tracing--that thing refuses to work.

Is there a plunger- or other-style switch in the "loop"? My B-Body manual explains the wiring as it should appear, without actually telling you exactly where everything is.

Seems it's the small(est) things that cause the most headaches. Maybe I'll just leave the hood shut and assume it's working (like a backwards refrigerator...).

stetzie

Not sure, but some cars have the under hood light controlled by the headlight switch.
You have to turn the headlight switch one way or the other for it to work.
stetzie

Lady72nRob71

These cars need the parking or headlights on.
If the socket is clean and bulb is good, then the merc switch int he light may be bad.

kjr442

I thought the on and off was controlled by the angle of the hood when open. I know the headlights are a part of it, but it is only on when the hood is open,right??

w-30dreamin

Thanks for the great topic! And thanks for letting me get in on this thread.

I just learned my underhood light does work. I spent alot of time changing bulbs,fuses and running down wiring trying to get this light to work. Just went out,turned on my parking lights,opened the hood and it's working.

I'm always learning stuff around here.

Any secret to getting the trunk light to work?

Lady72nRob71

Just open the trunk all the way!

These are usually wired to constant 12V, same circuit as courtesy lights.
The switch differs per year and model. Sometimes a mechanical switch, others a merc switch.
My fridge came with a little penguin that controls the light but he drinks WAYYY too much of my beer!

w-30dreamin

Thanks Rob.

I don't think I'll have to worry about the penguin. I don't drink much beer.Unless the penguin is from Mexico...I drink tequila.

Rickman48

Is the same penguin from the "Ice Cream" joke???

Lady72nRob71

Not sure about that but the little sucker tends to eat my ice cream, too! I am NOT putting my Irish cream in there - that's for sure...

auto_editor

I am not so lucky. No combination of lights being on, bulbs being wiggled or wiring being manipulated (short of just replacing it all) works. My multimeter shows the socket to be "dead" no matter what.

I was hoping I wouldn't have to re-run the wiring or some such drastic measure, but if there isn't a switch or something like it somewhere, I don't see any other alternative.

[Note to self: DO NOT GO LOOKING FOR THINGS TO "FIX." EVER. NO GOOD CAN COME OF IT...]

Allan R

Follow the wire back to the connector by the firewall. Unhook the connector and see if you have power coming from there. Wouldn't be a bad idea to also see if your ground on the light is blocked by rust.

If all else fails, carry a flashlight in the glove box for when you need it..

Lady72nRob71

The switch is a mercury type inside the light assy itself and is known to fail.
If you disconnest the wire from the lamp and have power at the car side with the lights on, you just need a new hood lamp assy (providing ground path is clean.
A unit from many GM cars can be used if originality is not an issue. A stroll through the yarde de junque should land you one...