Wiper switch

[mike561]

Im trying to replace the wiper switch but i cant figure out how to remove the headlight knob, i diddnt wanna try to pull it off and end up ripping out the headlight switch. keep in mind i have an '83 so the wiper switch is on the dash rather then the steering column.

[bhw33191]

Originally Posted by mike561

Im trying to replace the wiper switch but i cant figure out how to remove the headlight knob, i diddnt wanna try to pull it off and end up ripping out the headlight switch. keep in mind i have an '83 so the wiper switch is on the dash rather then the steering column.

I'm pretty sure its the kind of knob that just pulls straight off with like a crescent or half moon shape end. Just to be safe i'd turn the lights on so you can clamp a pair of vice grips on the shaft to make sure you don't rip out the switch. So if you've taken off the (original) radio knobs before, i think it should be similar to that. There may be some sort of locktite in it however so like i said use the vice grips to keep from ruining the switch.

[mike561]

yeah the knob is on there, i gave it a firm tug and it wont budge. i would try the vise grips but i dont wanna bend the headlamp switch rod or mess up the knob, though i may need another headlamp switch anyway cause if i try to rotate the knob to dim the dash lights they flicker on and off.

[soulmonger]

If its anything like my old bonneville there is probably a clamp on the inside of the knob holding it to the shaft. Rotate the knob and look behind it for a small peice of metal sticking out just a tiny bit. Use a flathead screwdrive to push that peice of metal down while pulling on the knob and it should come off.

[bhw33191]

Originally Posted by mike561

yeah the knob is on there, i gave it a firm tug and it wont budge. i would try the vise grips but i dont wanna bend the headlamp switch rod or mess up the knob, though i may need another headlamp switch anyway cause if i try to rotate the knob to dim the dash lights they flicker on and off.

Oh yeah mine flicker too when i do that. I think its just because the component that dims the lights is rusty. But i don't think its because its breaking or anything. If you could take it apart it might be as easy as some wd-40/grease or something.

[mike561]

thats what i was thinking too, the contacts are probably just rusty. ill look for that little clip though too

[Blue Bowtie]

On the side of the light switch behind the dash is a spring-loaded push button. Turn the headlights on, reach under the dash, and depress the button, The light switch knob will pull out easily. Remove the escutcheon nut and switch assembly.

Light switches were like this for about 40 years. Then accountants took over from the engineers and decided that having everything on the steering column was a better idea (from a cost perspective).

[mike561]

that sounds more like it would work, ill give that a try, thanks blue bowtie.

[Blue Bowtie]

This might help:

Knob Release