Headlamp Switch Replacement - 1989 Mustang GT

drtdogmt · 10-11-2009

Two Questions:

1. What is the best option for replacing this? OEM, NOS, reproduction? I've found places to buy each and the reproduction is by far the cheapest but I don't want to have to replace the thing again if the reproduction part is garbage.

2. Replacing the pigtail and wiring harness as well I wanted to know what was the best method for tying the new harness in: crimping or soldering, and what methods you guys use.

Best,

USMC92 · 10-11-2009

On my 88 GT I have replaced that switch two or three times. It is easy to replace. On the wires I would crimp them with some insulation and some electricail tape.

**EagleAutosports** · 10-11-2009

The best thing to do is get the best switch you can afford. If you get it at the Ford dealer, you'll be paying the highest price. Stay away from those switches on ebay, you want a NEW switch, whether NOS or reproduction.

As for the wiring, if at all possible I'd say you should solder. It's a problem that needs as much help as possible to prevent it from happening again, but it's hard to get in there to solder that harness in. If you can't solder, I'd suggest using heat shrink over the connection you make.

drtdogmt · 10-12-2009

Thanks for the advice. I went ahead and ordered the two through foxresto. Hopefully I will have my problem solved by this weekend.

**EagleAutosports** · 10-12-2009

Hope it gets solved. Those of us who've had that issue sympathize.

drtdogmt · 10-13-2009

A question about crimping: How far back should I look to cut the wiring harness that is currently installed? As far back as possible? The length of the new wiring harness?

Thanks for helping me out on this.

USMC92 · 10-13-2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by drtdogmt

A question about crimping: How far back should I look to cut the wiring harness that is currently installed? As far back as possible? The length of the new wiring harness?

Thanks for helping me out on this.

No. No... If it was me I would cut the old harness right behind the old connectors that you are going to throw away. You may have to go back a 1/2 inch or until you get good wire that is not brittle. You always want extra wire in case a mistake is made or the crimp does not come out right. As Eagle Auto Sports suggested slide some heat shrink on the wire before you crimp it. When I mentioned insulation earlier I meant heat shrink. Let us know how you make out.