No main beam

[mart 475]

Hi got in my van last night and turned lights on but they seemed weak. On inspection it seems that only the side lights are coming on although the switch is appears to be clicking twice but no headlights. The main beam will flash but not stay on (I assume because the headlights are not on) so the bulbs must be ok? Any thoughts and help would be really appreciated as I don't want to turn up to the auto elects with a problem I could solve myself(which translates into the members hopefully could solve it for me) ta

[wahvan]

Could be the relay. (Its up inside on the left if I remember correctly).

[1664]

Early or late fusebox? You know the lamps dim and look like sidelights if the engine isn't running/ignition is off don't you?

[mart 475]

Yes I do realise that lights would be dim if engine not running,the engine was running but only side lights would come on,no change when the switch was pressed to headlight position. My bus is a 1987 club joker 2.1.

[1664]

Since both (dipped) headlamps don't work it's unlikely to be a fuse issue as they're separately fused. Wouldn't hurt to check fuses 21 and 22 though - you never know. Link to fuses list; scroll down for the later style fusebox

http://www.brick-yard.co.uk/VehicleSpec ... /fuses.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

I know the chances of the lamps both blowing at the same time is remote to say the least but I'd check them all the same. I'd head for the switch after that. Giving the earth crowns above and behind the relay/fuse box can cure all sorts of gremlins too. Do you own a Haynes Manual and a multimeter?

[mart 475]

Ta. Will check fuses 2moro and then work through list . I have a Bentley manual but no multimeter but will borrow one. Ta again

[Mocki]

It may also be a poor earth connection, check the earth crown above the fuse box and also there could be a additional earth behind the actual headlight units depending on the year and previous ownership!
It is also a possibility that the headlight switch is at fault !

[mart 475]

So checked bulbs,both fine,checked earths all ok so have ordered new switch to be picked up on Monday. Bad news is when checking bulbs one of the headlight adjuster screws appeared to be loose so I tried to tighten it and the effin plastic receiver shattered into a hundred pieces! Anyone know where I will get another please? I will post result of new switch on Monday. Ta for all replies.

[kevtherev]

stop fixin stuff that ain't broke

[mart 475]

So fitted new switch today,problem solved ,well apart from sourcing the little plastic thingy that I broke so ta for all posts.