The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area The Electrical Bay Gauge Dimmer Switch

Hello

On my '46, I've got that stock little dimmer switch right there by the ash tray under the dash for the gauges.

If I go over a bump, it jars the switch and the lights on the gauges go out. A bit of fiddling with it resores the lights -- until the next bump.

Can I take it apart and clean it up, or should I just replace it?

Brendan,

If I remember this correctly, there should be a wiper that runs over the wound resistance spring. The little tension spring that hold the wiper against the resistance wire can loose its oomph after years of service. If this dimmer isn't all encased, you can polish the wiper contact, make sure it is held with some tension against the wound wire, and even lightly sand the contact surface of the wound wire...or just buy a new dimmer if they are available.

Even a shot of electrical contact cleaner might do wonders for the old switch.

Stuart

Stu:

Thanks for the pointers. I didn't know about the spring, but it makes sense.

I'll get some emory paper and clean up the contacts, provided I can get into the housing.

AFAIK, the only replacement switches are clamp style that you use on heaters and whatnot. Someone may be making an original-type switch again, though. It's been a while since I've checked.

Thanks again.

I'd try the contact cleaner first. It's very likely that will do the trick. Should be able to get it at a Radio Shack or electronics store.

Just a hint. They still sell contact burnishing tools for electrical points and such. I find mine at a local electronics store. I thinks it's just the thing for this kind of work as some sanding materials will leave a non-conductive grit behind.

Heck, i bought a brand new light switch and the dimmer doesn't work only on high.

Contact cleaner it is. Thanks, guys.