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EFV-8 Club Forum / General Ford Discussion / headlight switch removal

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Discussion Topic: headlight switch removal

Barney

10-27-2025 @ 3:43 PM

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Posts: 126
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Hello to All and TRJ Ford,
Referencing a recent previous post titled 'whimpy headlights', TRJ mentioned upgrading the headlight switch. As I alluded in an earlier post, my switch seems loose internally. I have installed and removed this switch a few years ago. I have a good memory; unfortunately, it's a very short memory. (I'm sure none of you can relate.) Anyway, I know there's a certain technique to remove the shaft from the switch. Can anyone please give me a hint or two how to do this? Thank you so much
Regards,
Barney
PS I'll attempt to not keep bothering you guys.

TomO

10-27-2025 @ 5:11 PM

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We don't mind being asked questions. If we can save you time and trouble, it makes our day.

To remove the light switch knob, turn it to the right 1/4 turn to disengage the mechanism and then pull it out. It may take a little force to get it out.

Tom

JayChicago

10-28-2025 @ 7:07 AM

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I believe you have a 1940 Ford. That switch has an internal springy copper tang that catches against a bulge on the end of the rod. I think on this switch, turning won’t disengage.

There is a small hole on one side of the switch body. (don’t recall which side) Insert a paper clip or drill bit into the hole. Gently push against the tang as you pull the rod to get the rod ‘s bulge past the tang.

Barney

10-28-2025 @ 8:58 AM

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Thank you to Tom and Jay,
Tom, I utilized your technique and it came out. You certainly were correct - it required a fair amount of force to remove.
Jay, I saw your response a few minutes ago. I am going to check it there's the hole you mentioned. That would seem like a more "civil" way of removal. I never liked to use force. Maybe both methods work equally well. Thanks to you both for your responses.
Regards,
Barney

GK1918

10-31-2025 @ 8:09 AM

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You guys are better than me I can't even feel the thing never mind take the wires off. read my reply further on about this

51woodie

10-31-2025 @ 12:07 PM

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Here is a pic of the bottom side of the HL switch in my '46 Coupe. Inserts a small flat blade screwdriver, push up and pull on switch knob.

v8fordman

11-02-2025 @ 2:46 AM

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If it’s an original ‘40, it will definitely have the small hole that you need to insert a paper clip and push the internal locking tab. If you force the issue and turn it, you stand the chance of ruining the switch internally and replacements are getting difficult to find. To replace the knob, all you need to do is put the shaft back in the switch and push it forward. It will lock in place if you didn’t damage it while removing it.

TomO

11-04-2025 @ 10:18 AM

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At 92, I learned something new. When I was a teenager, I was told the method that I described and have been using all of these years. Today I examined a switch closely and found the hole. Barney, I apologize for giving you incorrect information.

Tom

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