Headlamp Dimmer Switch: Description and Operation
Rotary-Type Headlamp SwitchRotary_type Headlamp Switch:
Ranger, Explorer vehicles are equipped with a rotary type headlamp switch. Turning the knob to the first detent turns on the park and other exterior lamps. The second position turns on the head lamps. This switch does not contain a dimming rheostat. Intensity of the instrument panel lights is controlled by a separate pulse width dimmer located to the right of the headlamp switch.
Multi-Function Switch
Multi-Function Switch:
On all vehicles, the headlamp switch is not directly connected to the headlamps. The switch feeds the dimmer switch which is directly connected to the headlamps. The dimmer switch is part of the multi-function switch which is mounted on the left side of the steering column. The turn signal lever is used to switch the headlamp between high and low beams. In its normal, centered position, the dimmer switch completes the circuit to the low beam headlamps. Pushing the lever away from the steering wheel turns on the high beam headlamps. The switch also contains the flash-to-pass function. When the lever is pulled toward the steering wheel, the switch completes the circuit to the high beam headlamps. The switch is spring loaded and will return to the OFF or low beam position when the turn signal lever is released.