Dimming headlights and slow headlight pop-up
01-09-2002, 01:38 AM
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Dimming headlights and slow headlight pop-up
Another issue I've noticed is when the heater & headlights are on and the car is driving, the headlights dim a little and the Gen. light is dimly lit.
Could this be an alternator problem? (if it were a toyota I could tell-cause the radios lose reception before the car dies!)
The other one is the headlights pop up slowly, driver's side first, then passenger side as soon as the 1st one is all the way up-is that normal?
Could this be an alternator problem? (if it were a toyota I could tell-cause the radios lose reception before the car dies!)
The other one is the headlights pop up slowly, driver's side first, then passenger side as soon as the 1st one is all the way up-is that normal?
01-09-2002, 03:52 AM
#2
Safety Car
Re: Dimming headlights and slow headlight pop-up (VetteKitty)
With the headlights dimming out and the gen light glowing, it seems like it would be a good time to get the charging system checked out. Also a bad belt or one thats too loose could cause charging problems too. Also make sure the engine to frame ground strap is still in place.
I think its normal for the headlights to pop up the way you describe. Mine do the same thing. If you raise the rpm slightly when operating the headlight doors, It may increase the vacuum available to them and help them move up and down faster.
I think its normal for the headlights to pop up the way you describe. Mine do the same thing. If you raise the rpm slightly when operating the headlight doors, It may increase the vacuum available to them and help them move up and down faster.
01-09-2002, 04:02 AM
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Re: Dimming headlights and slow headlight pop-up (VetteKitty)
Regarding the popping of the headlights my car had the same symptons - to start out with. After a while it got worse until I had to raise the headlights manually by pushing them into position. The problem turned out to be old, leaky hoses unable to hold a vacuum. I had these replaced and now the lights are popping up and down almost instantly.
Don't know about the dimming problem :)
Don't know about the dimming problem :)
01-09-2002, 11:04 AM
#4
Le Mans Master
Re: Dimming headlights and slow headlight pop-up (VetteKitty)
I wouldn't necessarily agree that having your lights go up one at a time slowly is normal. My '75s lights both go up and down together and very quickly.
I would start checking or replacing your vacuum system hoses, check for leaks or loose connections, your light switch and manual override under the dash, etc. Eckler's, among others, has a real nice pamphlet on troubleshooting your light's vacuum system and wiper door system (you don't have wiper doors). Has very good descriptions and drawings.
Good luck...the lights can give you headaches sometimes :lol:
I would start checking or replacing your vacuum system hoses, check for leaks or loose connections, your light switch and manual override under the dash, etc. Eckler's, among others, has a real nice pamphlet on troubleshooting your light's vacuum system and wiper door system (you don't have wiper doors). Has very good descriptions and drawings.
Good luck...the lights can give you headaches sometimes :lol:
01-20-2002, 08:09 PM
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Re: Dimming headlights and slow headlight pop-up (Cajun75)
Cat
I agree the 1st things to look at would be the belt... then the physical connections to the battery and chassis/engine ground. If you need any help.. e mail me after you get settled in the new place and have some time to work on the car. I am only about 30 mins from you...
I've owned 2 - C3's (71 & 69) and have some experience troubleshooting electrical problems.
Don
[Modified by XmentalPilot, 6:45 PM 1/20/2002]
I agree the 1st things to look at would be the belt... then the physical connections to the battery and chassis/engine ground. If you need any help.. e mail me after you get settled in the new place and have some time to work on the car. I am only about 30 mins from you...
I've owned 2 - C3's (71 & 69) and have some experience troubleshooting electrical problems.
Don
[Modified by XmentalPilot, 6:45 PM 1/20/2002]
