[urq] (no subject) & Dim Tail Lights

[Scott Justusson]

 Gents:
The 4k/CGT boys do this relay mod as standard issue, to prevent the switch from spontaneous meltdown.  This is a *simple* diagnostic tree.  Way too much focus on grounds, when a power diagnostic has been presented.  For urq's and older vw electrics, the best tool to make these diagnostics quickly is the "Power Probe".  The Master Combo Kit includes all the toys needed to make this diagnostic go quickly.  That said, easy enough to just use a set of 12v alligator clips and a meter.  Here I see plenty of opinions on 'fixes' to what may or may not be broken.

Instead of jumping ahead to all the 'possibilities' and claims, a basic diagnostic will find the issue within a couple minutes.  IME, if the bulb truly has a 'ground' issue, all other functional lights have the same problem.  Read:  You will also see turn, backup and brake light issues....  Usually along with (*the* telltale IME) some electrical funk in the dash IC itself, as the power tries to find another way to ground itself.  None of this appears to be present.  Back up to diagnostics.

12v at the fuse block plug?
Inspect plug for burnt terminal
Put 12v to the fuse block plug tail light wire, measure voltage at the tail lights.  IF 12V at the tail lights forget the rear end of the car!
12v at the light switch output?
12v at the light switch input?

This is diagnostics 101, not a 'fix' yet. 7-8v means there is a voltage problem.   That should be a straight forward electrical diagnostic tree.

Hello?

Scott J
84 urq
83 urq

 

 

-----Original Message-----
From: dgraber460 <dgraber460 at aol.com>
To: urq <urq at pacbell.net>; urq <urq at audifans.com>
Sent: Fri, Mar 7, 2014 8:14 pm
Subject: Re: [urq] (no subject) & Dim Tail Lights


Thanks Steve.
You're right, and the more I thought about the relay idea the more I realized it 
wouldn't work very well, as all 3 signals to the lights would need their own 
relay. (running, signal, & brake) I'm going to dig deeper into the entire wiring 
situation including the grounds and chassis contact points.
That has to be it as it isn't sporadic - just low constant voltage.
Ah - the love hate relationship of old cars. I do really love this old thing 
though.


Dennis 
Denver