Bad headlight dimmer switch...

[xjfish]

2nd gen Integra: Low-beams no worky. I traced the problem to the multi-function turn-signal/lights/hi-lo headlight switch on the steering column. If I fiddle with the switch I can occasionally get the low-beams to work otherwise its hi or nothing. Tore the cover off the steerig column and the horn/trim off the steering wheel to try to get the switch off so i could try to take it apart to clean or replace. Could not get the switch off after removing a few screws, anybody know how it comes off? Have to remove the steering wheel?

Wiring colors for the switch would be helpful in case I decide to somehow rig up a manual switch.

Would it be dangerous (I'm thinking possible bulb overheating?) to wire the headlights so that the low-beams are on all the time (when the headlights are turned on) and the hi-beams are on with the low when switched on??

Are the high-beams even that bright to oncoming traffic on these things? Could I just leave them on all the time without blinding anyone?

Sorry that all sounds confusing but if anybody could give me any input on the subject, it would be much appreciated!!

[coldfire]

You can't leave your highs on all the time. Sure you could run an interrupt switch for the low beams. I think. Can't see why not.

[xjfish]

Is it bad to run the low/hi beams on at the same time for extended periods of time? More light!

[integra_guy]

Originally Posted by xjfish

Is it bad to run the low/hi beams on at the same time for extended periods of time? More light!

I wouldn't use the hi beams, unless you really need it,I only use my if the low beams bulbs burn out. or if I take the back roads, and I can't see down the road.

[Acura2g]

No the high-beams are even that bright on these cars, but i'll tell you, you will fail inspection. The steering wheel removes with ease. You just pop off the horn cover and you'll see the bolts right there. But i doubt thats going to help you much. I can't help you right now, but a little later today i can dig up some info on how to replace that switch. I gotta head out the door, but i'll get back to you a little later today.

[xjfish]

Thanks a lot. Acutally I live in MN and do not have required inspections. I just don't want to piss anybody off. The last owner just told me he left the hi-beams on all the time. I plan to wire the fog lights so they can turn on with the highs and might just leave everything as is. Looks like ALL of the stalk controls are part of the same switch and I'd have to replace the whole thing. Almost positive I would have to pull the steering wheel, but it does look easy...

[Acura2g]

its a pain, but i wouldn't mess with it if its all shooty like that, i would take it into a shop and do it. I usually give tips for people, but i think in your case that its a little consuming unless you really know what you're doing and want to.

[xjfish]

Naw it really wasn't too bad. I guess I would consider myself somewhat mechanically inclined... Tonight I pulled the wheel so I could get to the switch, and removed it. Took it all apart and cleaned all the contacts with rubbing alcohol. Got everything back together and its working perfect now! Thanks anyway.

[Acura2g]

I didn't mean the wheel would be hard to remove, thats easy... I meant the wiring. But thats good that you were able to solve that problem relitively easy.