69 Z/28 Rally Headlamps Trouble shoot

[KenMaisano]

I took my Z out the other day and when i turned the lights on the Vacuum doors did not open. If i manually move the switch on the valve that is on the canister, they open right up. The two vacuum hose's going from the light switch to the canister valve have vacuum on both sides with the light switch on of off. So i am thinking the light switch is the problem??

Thanks
Kenny

[William]

There is a sliding valve in the h/l switch that moves between the vacuum ports. Sounds like the tab broke off.

If you know someone with skinny arms, they can swap the switch without dismantling anything.

[KenMaisano]

Thanks for the Info..

[NorCam]

Helps to have the seat out so one can lay on their back and wrangle a hand up in the back of that dash Ken. Trying to twist in around the seat to position your body into that area will kill your back and limit what you can see while you work to pull the switch out. Laying in the car on your back allows you to see exactly what you're doing back in there. Get a good LED light to shine up in there too.

[KenMaisano]

Thanks.. Does anyone have a good replacement lead on the switch??

[firstgenaddict]

Norcam is correct it is a PITA to get your hand to the switch, you can also use a bench the height of the rocker and a pad across the bench and into the floor board to sprawl out on.

[69L78]

Thanks.. Does anyone have a good replacement lead on the switch??

I have 2-177's & 1-176

[NorCam]

JB to the rescue! (lol) :flag:

I see you were up early again Jeff?

[KenMaisano]

I have 2-177's & 1-176

PM Sent..Thanks

[69L78]

JB to the rescue! (lol) :flag:

I see you were up early again Jeff?

I was on my way at 5 AM to go to Maple Grove Raceway swap meet.

[KenMaisano]

There is a sliding valve in the h/l switch that moves between the vacuum ports. Sounds like the tab broke off.

If you know someone with skinny arms, they can swap the switch without dismantling anything.

Yep, That's the problem.. If i purchase a aftermarket switch can i use the metal tab out of it and install it in my original 177 switch?

https://www.yenko.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=191942&stc=1&d=1617499042

[William]

There were other GM cars that used a vacuum h/l switch. '69 Caprice?

Even a used switch may be ok for parts.

[firstgenaddict]

68-81 Corvette -
68-69 GTO with hideaways.

[KenMaisano]

Thanks for all the help guys. I silver soldered a new metal tab. It works great now.