help....headlights go off occassionally while driving

[chaos254]

this has been the 3rd time that my headlights have cut out on me while driving down the road. Definitely scares the **** out of you when your on a backroad with no other lights!!! Anyone know why this could be happenning? It seems like everytime is does happen, my highbeams were on. Today when they went off I flicked off my highbeams and even my low beams didnt work so i hit my flashers so i could kind of see and flicked the highbeam switch on/off and it eventually started working again. For the rest of the trip i didnt use my high beams and no more cut outs but like i said this has happened a couple of times already.

 

[95GTV8]

thinking a bad wire somewhere

 

[HISSIN50]

It sounds like a thermal kick-out (like your hairdryer has). Foxes DO have such a device integral to the switch, but I have no idea about the SN95's. I wanted to mention it in case that rang a bell with someone.

I also think that there are two fuses for the headlights (one under hood and one in the car) but I dont think either is a circuit breaker (which would kick-out the same way).

I would look in the underhood fusebox and see if the fuse was replaced with a CB (I really doubt it, but it does not hurt to inspect things anyhow).

Good luck.

 

[BlownFiveLiter]

This is actually a fairly common problem. Take a look at the wiring to your switch, and the switch itself. Chances are they're needing replacement. I'd bet they're melted due to resistance, and causing an intermittant problem with your lights. I don't recall who did a write-up about this on here, but they replaced it with a new harness and larger gauge wiring.

 

[HISSIN50]

Matt, did that write up mention using a connector for a Bronco? Someone did that (all they said they had to do was switch a couple pins, IIRC). I think that was for SN95's (I get the fox and SN retrofits confused). Good memory though man.

 

[BlownFiveLiter]

JT, I believe you're correct, it did use one from a Bronco. Better memory on your part

 

[chaos254]

any of guys know where i can find that writeup? I might just try replacing the switch to see if that stops it and check the wiring while i'm at it.

 

[94TURBO5 O]

It's prob your signal lever being wore out on the contacts is the culprit. Next time if it happens, try wiggling the lever. Mine did that and it stopped after I replaced it. I got one used off of ebay for 5 bucks. Good Luck and drive carefully.

 

[smokediver27]

Had a similar experience myself. Ended up being a bad headlight switch. These switches actually build up a decent amount of heat (related to the dimmer I believe) Its a cheap fix.