A quick head lights question

[petethefeet]

All,
I have owned my van for 3 years now and it is relatively unmolested and original.
I knew the head light connections were a bit tired and the connector (H4) on the back of the main head lamp bulb was a melted.
So i took the push on connectors out of the plastic block and fitted a spare from an old loom I have and tightened the spade connectors up slightly and put it all back as it was. Did the same to the other side.
But the three wires to the bulb on the other side were in a different order (the lights have worked ok for the last three years, just a bit dim)
Re checked the spare loom connection positions and found that the first light connections (over heated ones) were in the wrong order (as they have been for 3 + years)
Turned the lights on to check them, and without the ignition on only the side lights come on even if the dipped beam is switched on, if i turn the ignition on and start the van, the dipped beam comes on as it should.
I assume this is the normal operation?
Previously i think the dipped beam came on even if the ignition was off due to it being wired the wrong way round?

[marlinowner]

Yes, sidelights only until ignition is switched on is correct.

[petethefeet]

Thanks for the reply.
I thought that sounded right; i just assume some one had messed with them in the past.

Regards