Headlight Switch can't handle new headlights? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

BrutonLS1 · 04-14-2013, 08:48 PM

Hey guys,
I got new aftermarket headlights that're a lot brighter, after installing them I noticed they begin to flicker after about 20seconds of being on. I figured my switch was bad so I bought a new one from LMC, I installed the new one and am still having the same problem. I took the switch apart and noticed there's an overload to the power wire in the switch, I'm assuming this is the culprit. My wiring, alternator and battery are good to go. Just wondering if anyone has had this problem and has found a switch that will handle a lot more? -trying to avoid running my own relay. Thanks
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Tx Firefighter · 04-14-2013, 09:11 PM

A relay is the right way to do it. There is no reason to ask your switch and wiring to endure that extra amperage. You can do the relay mod for 10 or 20 dollars in an easy afternoon.
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SS Tim · 04-14-2013, 09:28 PM

Relays are exactly what you need. The circuit breaker inside the headlamp switch doesn't like higher than factory loads much less the higher resistance older harnesses can develop. The headlight relay mod. adds relays near the headlamps that are powered on the switched side by the battery buss and controlled by your existing headlamp and dimmer switches.

LONGHAIR · 04-14-2013, 09:58 PM

I fully agree with the above....relays really are the way to go here. There is no good reason to avoid it.

Square_78 · 04-14-2013, 10:00 PM

You can buy a complete plug n play harness for your headlights that takes the load off your headlight switch. Takes 5 min to install. LMC has them.
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knomadd · 04-14-2013, 10:22 PM

You really can't run modern lights without a relay. If it works, either your switch, wiring, or bulbs won't last as long as it should. The relay will take the heavy load off of the switch and wiring. I've burned up a couple of switches because I didn't know any better. Since then, I had done some research and found out that the relay was all it took. I've had no problems since. Just do it, you won't regret it.

BrutonLS1 · 04-23-2013, 05:14 AM

You guys rock. I'll do it. Thanks a lot.
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04-14-2013, 08:48 PM	#1
BrutonLS1 Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: Weatherford, Tx Posts: 142	Headlight Switch can't handle new headlights? Hey guys, I got new aftermarket headlights that're a lot brighter, after installing them I noticed they begin to flicker after about 20seconds of being on. I figured my switch was bad so I bought a new one from LMC, I installed the new one and am still having the same problem. I took the switch apart and noticed there's an overload to the power wire in the switch, I'm assuming this is the culprit. My wiring, alternator and battery are good to go. Just wondering if anyone has had this problem and has found a switch that will handle a lot more? -trying to avoid running my own relay. Thanks Posted via Mobile Device __________________ -Bruton 1968 GMC long bed 5.7/700R4 --I'd rather push a Chevy, than drive a Ford.--

04-14-2013, 09:11 PM	#2
Tx Firefighter Watch out for your cornhole ! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Azle, Texas Posts: 14,162	Re: Headlight Switch can't handle new headlights? A relay is the right way to do it. There is no reason to ask your switch and wiring to endure that extra amperage. You can do the relay mod for 10 or 20 dollars in an easy afternoon. Posted via Mobile Device

04-14-2013, 09:28 PM	#3
SS Tim Registered User Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Edwards, CA Posts: 7,503	Re: Headlight Switch can't handle new headlights? Relays are exactly what you need. The circuit breaker inside the headlamp switch doesn't like higher than factory loads much less the higher resistance older harnesses can develop. The headlight relay mod. adds relays near the headlamps that are powered on the switched side by the battery buss and controlled by your existing headlamp and dimmer switches. __________________ Thanks, Tim * VIN/Model Decoders * Power Team Charts (engine/transmission/gear ratio) * Post Your Pickup SPID Blazer SPID Suburban/Panel SPID * RTFM ... Read The Factory Manuals... download 'em here Highlanders Do you have a 1972 Plaid Pickup? Plaid Blazer ** Plaid Suburban

04-14-2013, 10:00 PM	#5
Square_78 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Okanagan Valley, BC, Canada Posts: 1,237	Re: Headlight Switch can't handle new headlights? You can buy a complete plug n play harness for your headlights that takes the load off your headlight switch. Takes 5 min to install. LMC has them. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ #teamlongbed "I refuse to go disc brakes. I actually love drum brakes. It makes for an adventure." - 50bomb 1978 Chevy shop truck - static 6/8" 1970 GMC 1500 - Accuair eLevel Resto-mod http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=537497

04-14-2013, 10:22 PM	#6
knomadd Registered User Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Rosenberg, Texas Posts: 3,506	Re: Headlight Switch can't handle new headlights? You really can't run modern lights without a relay. If it works, either your switch, wiring, or bulbs won't last as long as it should. The relay will take the heavy load off of the switch and wiring. I've burned up a couple of switches because I didn't know any better. Since then, I had done some research and found out that the relay was all it took. I've had no problems since. Just do it, you won't regret it. __________________ -Duane C/10 Club Texas member 1971 Chevy C10 "Brutus" SWB Fleetside 2016 6.0L (L96) 6L90E (driver/project) 1965 Pontiac GTO "Royal Goat" 400/TH400 w/AC (my baby)

04-23-2013, 05:14 AM	#7
BrutonLS1 Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: Weatherford, Tx Posts: 142	Re: Headlight Switch can't handle new headlights? You guys rock. I'll do it. Thanks a lot. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ -Bruton 1968 GMC long bed 5.7/700R4 --I'd rather push a Chevy, than drive a Ford.--



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