Brights start blinking after being on for a short while

[mental1896]

The regular beams work just fine. When I first turn the brights on they also seem to work well. However, after about 5-10 minutes of being on, both sets of lights (high and low beams) will turn off for a second or two and then come back on--over and over. When I switch the high beams off, my regular lights continue to function normally. There is no discernible pattern to the flickering. This is a problem mostly because my neighborhood is littered with deer and I'm often on the road before daylight.

Has anybody else experienced this?

[mudkicker715]

The switch that you use to turn on the lights is failing. Replace it. Btw its a fun process that you will remember for all time.

[1985amceagle]

If the above doesnt solve it, your other issue could be the headlight switch and plug. They have been known to melt some.

[mental1896]

Thanks, guys.

Looking forward to the memories!

[IowaEagle]

Yup, sounds like the HL switch.  And you will be thankful they do not wear out often.

[carnuck]

high beam switch corroding does it too.

[mental1896]

Well, I pulled the dash apart shortly after my original post in this thread (took probably a dozen too many screws out   ). The switch showed signs of excessive heat. I popped the connector off, cleaned the contacts and replaced a short length of corroded/melted wire. That fixed the problem for a short while and then the lights decided to stop working altogether. Finally went and got a new switch (12 bucks at Autozone - last one in stock) and put it in last weekend. It was so much easier getting that dash apart the second time around. Anyway, I've been driving for five days now with perfectly functioning headlights (brights too).

Incidentally, when I was in there, I also popped the wiper switch off and cleaned the contacts. Went from fast-only to full functionality.

Thanks a ton!

[eaglefreek]

Your best bet is to install relays for the headlights. One for low beams and one for high beams. It takes the load of the switch in the vehicle and also allows more voltage to go to the headlights resulting in a brighter beam since there is usually a voltage drop after going through the switch and small wires.

[mental1896]

That's a great diagram. I intend to do this someday.

[carnuck]

You can buy what is called the headlight brightening kit with the relays and all included.