C2 headlight problem

[Joe M.]

Recently noticed that the filament on the high beams glow when the low beams are lit. Also, low beams seem quite hot, one new bulb is getting black.

Headlights/switch, dash headlight door switch, indicator/hi-beam lights on dash and dimmer all function as they should. New dimmer and headlight switches recently installed.

Another question, the headlight door switch operates with the key turned off....is this normal?

Rarely driven at night and day trips reveal no electrical problems, so not sure how long the problem existed. Car is an early 63. Any obvious solutions out there?

Thanks,
Joe

[Steve Pettit]

Re: C2 headlight problem

I know next to nothing about 63's, but on my 66, the headlight switch operates without key in switch.

Regards, Steve Pettit

[Joe C.]

Re: C2 headlight problem

Did you replace your headlight extension harnesses? There is (was) one manufacturer who is (was) reproducing them incorrectly. This would cause your problem.

The left and right side pigtails should both be wired identically into the connectors for the low beams.

Joe

[William C.]

Re: C2 headlight problem

Usually the problem with the filaments glowing is a ground problem in the headlamp harness.

[Joe M.]

Re: C2 headlight problem

Original harness, but taken apart and put together based on the wiring diagram in the shop manual. Noted other threads re error in wiring schematic. Thanks for the suggestions, I will check it out and let you all know. Again appreciate your time to respond.
Thanks,
J

[Joe C.]

Re: C2 headlight problem

Joe:

The schematic is WRONG (at least, for 1965 it is). I assume that all the midyears are wrong, including 1963. If your pigails are wired into the lo beam connectors as per the wiring diagram (black, black/lt green crossed on the left side), then this will cause a backfeed into the hi beams. Just verify that both sides are symmetrical.

Joe