Eric, before you start checking all the complicated wiring stuff, check one
simple thing first.....the return spring for the brake pedal. About a year
ago, I was having the same problem you describe....tail lights staying on
and running the battery down. I started checking all the wiring, then
realized that if I lifted up on the brake pedal, the lights went out. Turns
out the brake spring had just gotten weak over the years and wouldn't return
the brake pedal to the top. Put on a new spring (generic clutch/brake
spring from my LAPD) and the problem was fixed. Simple solution....cost $2.
If this turns out to be your problem, there are some simple tricks to
putting on the new brake (or clutch) spring. Let me know if you need more
info. Good luck!
Tom Caperton
47-2nd 3100....in Whiteville, NC
tcape@weblnk.net
----- Original Message -----
From: <varanus@phoenix.net>
To: <oletrucks@autox.team.net>
Sent: Wednesday, January 10, 2001 12:13 PM
Subject: [oletrucks] electrical question
> Hi gang:
>
> I think I am having a little brain lapse - my truck has run so well for
> so long that I haven't had to do much on her and I think I have
> forgotten some general repair knowledge.
>
> Something is draining my battery. The tail light suddenly started
> staying on when the truck was turned off so this is obviously the
> culprit. I rewired this truck 10 years ago and remember how
> absolutely simple it was so I am sure there aren't a lot of options
> for this short.
>
> In a nutshell - do ya'll think it's the headlight switch? Or the
> ignition switch? Both are stock 51. I am running 12volts and I am
> not sure if I have a relay in place for the original 6V headlight
> switch. Would putting a test light on both the ignition and
> headlight switch tell me which one is the culprit?
>
> Lastly, there are no reproduction headlight switches made in 12V
> so my choice is to use a 55-59 switch or buy a stock used 6V
> switch and put a relay in line. I'd rather stay with a stock switch -
> is it imperative to use the relay when running 12V through a 6V
> switch? I really don't think I have a relay in place now and it's been
> running fine since 90.
>
> Thanks ya'll.
> Eric
> oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
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