C2 Headlight issue

[Ira L.]

My headlight bucket rotation switch has always worked well and both buckets seemed to rotate somewhat in unison. All of a sudden when I try to rotate the buckets my left one barely moves and the right side one rotates perhaps a quarter of the way and stops. Then I need to wait a awhile before I can begin to close the buckets.

Is this a motor issue or an electrical/switch issue. I also notices that the Light indicator on the dash seems to have stopped functioning as well.

Any ideas?

[Joe R.]

Re: C2 Headlight issue

The rotation problem is in the headlight motors as both receive +12 from the switch at the same time on the same circuit. The light indicator problem could be a burned out bulb or the switches on the headlight motor brackets. You could have pulled out the wires going to the switches checking out the motors.

JR

[Richard G.]

Re: C2 Headlight issue

Sounds to me like the breaker is opening.
On a 63 its located next to the fuse box on the side panel. I believe it close to the radio side panel on the other C2's.
This is a excellent place to check the load. If you don't have a DC amp meter I would unplug one at a time and see if you can identify the motor with the issue. (likely the left side according to your post) If you run the motors, with the car off, and if your amp gauge is working watch your gauge you may be able to get an idea of the load, . I would not rely 100% on this measurement.
Running, each motor will pull roughly 8 amps for a total of 16A. Not counting starting surge. The breaker is rated for 40A.
If you can identify one as a problem you can then pull the motor off and confirm the headlight bucket moves easily by hand.

These gearboxes are dirt simple. Only the motor and associated bearings are difficult to deal with.

[Ira L.]

Re: C2 Headlight issue

Thank you Joe. Sounds like a good start.

[Ira L.]

Re: C2 Headlight issue

Thanks Richard,

Sounds like a good way to begin to isolate the problem. Much appreciated.

[Gene M.]

Re: C2 Headlight issue

Non use of components will show up in surprise non operation. I suggest you ring out everything with a volt/ohm meter. Jumpering the breaker will determine if it is the issue. But be careful if amp draw is excessive. Another option is to power each motor directly with separate power source direct to motor’s connector.

It is possible the switch contacts are tarnished which could add resistance. Be advised with engine off the voltage is lower than when alternator is charging.

[Ira L.]

Re: C2 Headlight issue

Thank you Gene, I think I'll start with the switch and trouble shoot from there.

[Frank D.]

Re: C2 Headlight issue

Thank you Gene, I think I'll start with the switch and trouble shoot from there.

That's what I would do -- the dash switch isn't that hard to get apart and they can get grungy inside.....a good spray with DeOxIT contact cleaner may be all that is needed (Amazon has it). Stay with the original switch if you can - the repros are not very good...