I have a 1982 ford f-150 pick-up and lately the headlights flicker dim to bright, not go out , but dim to bright and back to dim. Is this a bad main body ground? The connections that plug in to the headlights seem to be ok. Not sure what is going on. Any advise would be appriciated. Thanks David
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DBbottledigger
Install a cap.
No.. don't do that. First thing would be to check alternator voltage.. that year Ford might have an external voltage regulator. Also check the connection at the alternator.. some Fords are known for bad connections at the main plug at the alternator.. to the point that they catch fire.
Check the voltage at the battery, check the voltage at the alternator, and measure voltage drops on both positive and negative. That should find your problem If you'd still like help, post the voltage readings and let's see what you've got.
Jim
Early to mid eighties Fords are notorious for having poor headlamp switches. The easiest way to test this is to find constant power at teh switch and meter the voltage, then find the wire that goes to 12 volts when the switch is pulled out. If there is a noticable difference, then you might need to replace the switch. Or clean it really good.
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Northstart.....or start it your damn self.
if that's not the case, then explain when this usually happens. Is the radio on? do you have amps? besides the switch, are the power cables clear and ok?
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Never send your ducks to eagle school.
The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.
The 3Ls of life: Learn from the Past, Live for the Present, Look to the Future.
thank you for your time and advice. I will check the switch and get back to you. thanks, bottledigger
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DBbottledigger