Headlights failed

[stritch]

my 1986 t25s headlights have failed (all 4), no fuses blown.Have been told it might be the relay. I looked at Haynes manual but no sign of headlight relay on fuse box.I have 12 relay positions, No3 has relay No 43,No5 has relay No24,No8 has relay No18 & finaly No12 has relay No LPO411(all but 1are 4 pin& other is 3pin)is it one of these mentioned?.Rear lights work. When headlight switch is on the blue dip light remains on even when I try to dip.I am just getting into T25 DIY so have I missed something obvious?Just campers can supply a 5pin which adds to my confusion.Take pity on a novice and HEEEEELLLP!!!!

[SyncroSwede]

My headlamps all failed at midnight in the Alps in March! I poked around with a multimeter to find the switch was getting juice in but not letting it out for the dipped beams. All other side lights worked. Cost me £25 for a new switch on my return. I had to bodge a by-pass wire to finish the trip though!

Do you have a multimeter and know how to perform diagnostics with it? Very useful skill to pick up and not too hard either.

[stritch]

Thanks for the tip,will learn some new skills.Usually if I can see it I can fix it,electics are a different matter.

[SyncroSwede]

The U.S. produced Bentley's manual is £60 odd from JK etc and sometimes available on here or ebay.

They have very thorough diagnostic procedures for this type of problem and others and more in depth than the Haynes. (Both manuals worth having though.)

Is there anyone near you with a little experience you could beg some practical demonstrations off?

(Hint: update your profile with your location and specific vehicle type! )

[stritch]

I should be able to find somebody.Failing that I should be able to pick some brains the next time the VW rally comes here to Brighton.