Did you check with the head lights or parking lights on? My '68 only lights up with the lights on... hope this helps. Dave

 

Actually what happened was the power lead was cut and stuck somewhere in the seat when I had it reupholstered. Ran a new lead and everything is working. Only works with key in as I think it should. Thanks so much for your reply.

 

Beat on that upholsterer. That could have burned the car to the ground.

 

The light should always come on when you open the vanity door and tilt the mirror door. Having the key in or in the on position should not make a difference. It works without the key from the factory.