Nothing seems to work anymore. (Headlight switch)

[Accelo]

I needed to pull my dash to resolve some wiring issues with the fuel gauge.
Got everything off but the light switch knob. The end of my fingers are sore from pushing on the "release button". Access is difficult, but not impossible, because of the AIR Vent hose. I am ready to get the saws-all out and cut the stem.

I can't dim the interior lights as they mostly are full on or almost off.
As you turn the switch the lights flicker like it's Xmas. When installing this I almost went back to the original switch but liked the fact the parking lights come on with the headlights.

I have removed many of these and never had this issue.
I suspect the build quality of the China light switch that came with the "American Auto Wire Kit." Anyone get the irony there? LOL.
Anyone have any removal suggestions before I take the torch to it?
I can install my original switch but will need a new switch handle if/when I cut it off so I can remove the dash bezel.
Cheers.

[jumpsoffrock]

Honestly I had a heck of a time with an original switch in a junkyard a few months ago, I couldn't believe how much trouble it was. Not just china junk, sometimes the releases just don't work correctly...

[Fbks_Cruiser]

I fought this not too long ago. Finally got it to come off by moving the switch knob vertically up and down while trying to pull it out (of course while pushing the button at the same time). The keeper in the switch is kinda keyhole shaped and the shaft needs to line up perfectly to pass through it.

[Accelo]

Matt:
Thanks for the suggestion. I will give it a try.

[Wrenchbender Ret]

Also be sure you pull the knob out to the on position before you push in the button.

George

[HO455]

I went through the same misery last year. The knob on mine was spinning on the shaft and it took me at least 45 minutes of jockeying about under the dash to get it free so I could replace the knob. I didn't make flat rate that day.

On other switches I seem to remember pulling the knob out all the way, then pushing the button while pushing the knob in slightly until the button depresses. My C10 switches (I have a spare) won't release with the knob that far out. It may help to try pushing the release with the knob closer to the park light position.


If your careful you can swap out the bad dash light resistor with one from another switch. You just to keep track of the spring on disassembly so it doesn't head to never, never be found, land.

Good luck

[Accelo]

Thanks everyone for the advice support. Sometimes it helps just to write it out. My Therapy I guess!
I calmed down and gave it another try early this morning. Used some of the suggestions. Still unsure which one worked but it did.
I was already mentally planing on how I was going to heat the shaft till the knob melted off the handle. Glad it didn't come to that as in less than 5 minutes I had it out.
Thanks
Cheers.