1999 Suburban headlights flicker problem

[rallensub]

I have a 1999 1500 chevy suburban and the headlights started flickering. The instrument panel also was flickering. Both of these symptoms disappeared when the engine was at a higher rpm. I had the bat and alternater checked and was told that they were ok.

I found the NHTSA TSB number 3170E/10019186 but was unable to get the full report.

The vehicle is in the dealership now and they have already asked for another day to get it fixed. They also did not have any answers as to what the problem was.

I am not comfortable with this. Has anyone had this problem and know some more info?

thanks
Rich

[seu174]

I have a 2002 surburban and I have started to have the same problem. Once I have started it up and the lights did not come on at all. A couple minutes later after playing with the switch they came on. I does not seem to flicker if the high beams are on.
I have not found a cause yet.

[rallensub]

Thanks, It looks like this is a PITA problem. Not much on the net that I can find out. I hope the dealer does not rape me!

If this can't be fixed, it will be time to replace the vehicle. Damm shame, it was a very nice car and served the family well.

Rich

[Happy Meal]

Originally Posted by seu174

I does not seem to flicker if the high beams are on.

Headlight switch?

[Christophe Salvain]

Hi

I got this issue on another GM product (Chevy Venture)
It's easy to fix :

01-06-03-005
Interior/Exterior Lamps - Flicker
May, 2001

Subject: Interior and Exterior Lamps Vary in Brightness (Replace Generator Voltage Regulator Ground Screw)

Models: 2000-2001 Chevrolet Impala (With 3800 Engine and Police or Taxi Package), 2000-2001 Chevrolet Venture, 2000-2001 Oldsmobile Silhouette, 2000-2001 Pontiac Montana, 2000-2001 Suburban / Tahoe


Condition

Some customers may comment that the interior and/or the exterior lamps vary in intensity (flicker).


Correction





Replace the voltage regulator attaching screw with the screw and washer from the service kit following the procedure outlined.

1. Disconnect the battery cable.
2. Remove the wiper module cover (U-Van).
3. Remove the voltage regulator ground screw (1). (This is the recessed screw located 1/3 of the way from the large battery cable attachment to the generator harness.) Use a stubby # 2 Phillips screwdriver to break it loose and then loosen the screw with a small pocket screwdriver. The screw may hang up on the plastic cover on the rear of the generator. If this happens, use a pocket screwdriver inserted between the screw and the cover. The screw will pop out when a little sideways pressure is applied.
4. Install the screw and washer from the kit through the voltage regulator and into the generator case.
5. Tighten the screw securely.
6. Replace the wiper module cover.
7. Reconnect the battery cable. Tighten the cable to 15 N.m (11 lb ft).


Parts Information

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.
Part Number Description
10316685 Kit, Screw for Bosch Generator


Warranty Information

Labor Operation Description Labor Time
J4100
(Impala) Screw, Voltage Regulator Mounting 0.2 hr
J4100
(U-Van) Screw, Voltage Regulator Mounting 0.3 hr
This is a unique labor operation time to be used only with this bulletin.
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use the table as shown.


Christophe Salvaing