Scott, I just wrote an article on all of this, it may be in the next
Brickline. The way it works is simple (but maybe you have a non-original
headlight switch because on an original the switch has both electrical
and vacuum connectors). On the original, there are two vacuum
connectors at the end of the switch and that is plumbed in line with
that "emergency" switch. Actually all the emergency switch does is
exactly what the main headlight switch does, but it does it without
turning the lights off. In other words, with the emergency switch
pulled down, the headlights stay up whether electrically on or off. The
way they work is that both switches (since they are inline) shut off
vacuum to the relay or relays depending on the number of your car.
Anyway, with no vacuum, the relay(s) default to provide vacuum to the
rear of the actuator and the headlights open. If all that wasn't clear,
write back with your questions. Kim
>While were on the sucject. I have heard the vacuum switch on the
inside
>of the car, (near the headlight switch) referred to as the "backup or
>emergency switch" If someone had a mint Bricklin (I'm only about two
>years and $20K away) , how should the headlight switch (the dash panel
>electric switch) actuate the headlights. Is there an electric solenoid
>valve somewhere that taps of the headlight power? Should the vacuum
>valve switch somehow be attached to the headlight switch behind the
>dash? I am at a loss. For me to use my headlights I must first open
>the headlight doors using the vacuum switch and then turn on the
>headlights with the dash knob.
>
>Just curious. It's fairly low on my list of things to do but I knew
>there are Bricklin Guru's out there that can help me =)
>
>-Scott
>#466
>
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