Headlights and Ignition Switch

[jadney@vwtype3.org (Melissa & Jim)]

>I think I have a "bug" in my ignition switch. When I turn on the 
>headlamps after I've started the engine they don't come on. I have to 
>turn the key in the switch back a little and then the lights illuminate. 
>This has been happening over the past couple of months but now it is 
>getting harder for me to trick the switch into turning on the lights.
>
>I have no idea what turns the lights off when you start the engine but 
>I'm sure it's the same thing that is having a hard time turning the 
>lights on.

The headlights in 71 and later type IIIs are turned off automatically when 
you turn off the ignition switch.  This means that there is an extra set of 
auxiliary contacts in the ignition switch which are in series with the 
headlight switch.  These contacts are shot in your switch.  You need to 
replace the switch; the part is about $20.  Make sure you get the right 
switch and find someone who knows what they are doing to replace it, or 
check out the Bentley manual.

Jim
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       Melissa Kepner                                    Jim Adney
       jadney@vwtype3.org              jadney@vwtype3.org
                             Laura Kepner-Adney
                             Madison, Wisconsin
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