Headlamp: Description and Operation

Headlamps Aerodynamic

Two aerodynamically styled headlamps are used. Each lamp uses a dual filament halogen headlamp bulb (13007). A burned out headlamp bulb on the Ranger, Explorer may be replaced without removing the headlamp. On Aerostar, replacing a burned-out headlamp bulb requires removal of the headlamp. Head lamps are controlled by the headlamp switch (11654) on the instrument panel (04320) and the multi-function switch (13K359) for high beams on the left side of the steering column.

Headlamp Delay System - Autolamp/Exit Delay, Explorer

The autolamp system provides light sensitive, automatic on-off control of the exterior lamps normally controlled by the headlamp switch. The exit delay system keeps the lamps on for a preselected period of time after the ignition switch (11572) is turned off. The preselected time lapse can be adjusted by the driver up to three minutes.

The system consists of an ON/OFF switch, a light sensor and a time delay control which are part of the inside rear view mirror (17700).

Autolamp Controls And Sensor:

The light sensor amplifier is on the back side of the interior rearview mirror. Do not place any items on the mirror that will block the sensor.

A pair of relays, headlamp delay and parking lamp delay, are used to turn the exterior lamp on and off independently of the headlamp switch. Opening and closing of the relay is controlled by a module which is also contained in the rearview mirror. The electrical contacts in the relays are closed when the module completes the ground circuits for the coil in both relays.

The amount of time the head lamps remain on after the ignition switch is turned off, is controlled using the slide knob on the mirror. Moving the knob to the right decreases the time. Moving the knob to the left increases the length of time the lights remain on up to a maximum of three minutes.

As part of the autolamp function, the system will turn the exterior lamps on when the natural outside light available to the light sensor decreases below a predetermined level, such as at sunset. Also, the lamps will automatically turn off when the level of outside light exceeds a predetermined level during daylight hours. The same relays are used for the autolamp and exit delay functions.

The autolamp system is functional for automatic operation when the on-off control is moved from the OFF position. The closer the control is moved toward the max-delay, the longer the lamps will stay on after the ignition switch is turned off.