'88 Ranger intermitent headlights

[lcfcats]

the headlights don't work sporadically---can go for weeks then they don't light. replaced switch which didn't help. suspect a bad ground---where is it on these little truck and does that make sense?? vehicle is in good condition overall and not terribly rusty for Mn.

 

[lcfcats]

ttt

 

[vw56german]

Where is the switch for the Hi beam lights? If it is an older style foot activated one it could be starting to corrode. That will cause loss of headlights. Even if it is a column mounted switch, check it, as the dimmer switch is a reason for loss of headlights. Other possible causes could be bad body grounds under the hood. Look around for little webbed straps or black wires around the front fenders and firewall, they go from the body to the battery or engine block.

 

[uncle_ed]

Do the tail lights stop working also? I would look at the ground wire up by the headlights. If you trace that harness back from the lights you should find a wire (possibly one on each side) that feeds off and is screwed to the side fender apron or frt core support. Look for broken wire, corrosion, rust etc and clean and reattach wire.
Ed

 

[lcfcats]

only the headlights go out so the dimmer switch idea seems to have merit. other thoughts?

 

[lcfcats]

guys,

I've crawled around and under this little truck and can't figure it out. There is no power at the fuse holder but all other lights are working. frayed wire? bad connection? whre to look seems to be the problem..........

 

[vw56german]

Not sure what you mean by "no power at the fuse holder", but headlights are usually wired hot at all times, with a fuse link (wire that melts if too much current is put through it). In this case I think it is a black 16ga wire, likely on the left fender well area. Sometimes they are totally melted, other times only melted inside the insulation. Usually will have molded ends where it is attached to the regular wire in the harness. Locate the fuse link and probe with a test light to see if there is an interuption of power. If there is get a section of fuse link wire at the parts store and replace it. DO NOT splice in regular wire.