headlights out on my 68 CJ5

Can anyone tell me where to start checking on the problem. The other day both of my lights went out--so I am assuming it is not a bulb issue. Should I check wiring, fuses, etc? Can anyone tell me where locate the possible problem areas?

Ryan

 

Start at the use panel "IN" and check voltage, then check fuse, then "OUT" and then to the switch, High Low switch, etc all the way to the bulb. Each bulb has its own ground so that is probably OK.

 

You ever consider that it might just be afraid of the dark?R)

 

If the wiring is somewhat factory, the light switch has a built in circuit breaker on the back of it. After you lost the lights, did you wait awhile for it to reset and try it again? That breaker also feeds all the other light besides the head light, so if one of them shorted out, it would knock all lights out. You need to check if you have voltage before and after the light switch to see where the problem is.
See http://www.earlycj5.com/tech/wiring/pdf/CJ_With_V6.pdf
for a wiring diagram

 

yep had trouble with mine as well.

 

Like others have said make sure to check the switch itself. I went on my first off road trip 13 years ago and the minute I drove on the dirt the switch failed. After it cooled off for a while it started working again.

 

yes, and my headlights occasionally work

 

how do you punch the dimmer

 

I go through this problem on a semi-regular basis. I have never has a problem that cleaning the various contacts and connections did not fix. The dimmer and light switch are frequently the culprits.

 

Unless it has been by-passed, the dimmer-switch will be mounted on the floor just to the left of the clutch pedal.

 

yeah get a new switch mine did the same thing sprayed contact cleaner in mine and worked the little bugger in and out it started working.Put H-4 motorcycle lights just use the switch to excite the relay now . almost like daylight. I carried a bright flashlight before as it seemed to be brighter than the lights were.

 

My light switch has a fuse mounted on it.

The dimmer switch is probably the culprit,being mounted from the out side of the tub, at least mine is.

How ever it is a '60 model and that may be changed by 1968.