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Joined: Sep 2004
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Backyard Mechanic
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OP
Backyard Mechanic
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Posts: 406 |
I have a couple of 55-58 (I think) T3 headlights I would like to get rid of but would like to test them first. There are 3 prongs on the back. How can I test these without damaging?
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Joined: Apr 2008
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ChatMaster - 1,000
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ChatMaster - 1,000
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Get a 12 volt battery and a couple test leads. Connect one lead from the negative battery post to the bottom center post on the headlight. Then take another lead and connect it to the battery positive post, then touch it to the outside terminals one at a time. One side is low beam and the other high beam. If both sides light up your headlight is good.
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Joined: Nov 2001
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Tech Advisor ChatMaster - 25,000
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Tech Advisor ChatMaster - 25,000
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The Mangy Old Mutt
"If It's Not Junk.....It's Not Treasure!"
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Joined: Jan 2002
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ChatMaster - 25,000
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ChatMaster - 25,000
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You can also use a 6 volt battery, just will be a dimmer light.
Gene Schneider
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Joined: Sep 2004
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Backyard Mechanic
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OP
Backyard Mechanic
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Thank you. I wasn't sure which post was for the negative wire.
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Shade Tree Mechanic
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Shade Tree Mechanic
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Joined: Sep 2004
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Backyard Mechanic
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OP
Backyard Mechanic
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Well, with a 12 battery, I did what was suggested. When I touched the outside post with the positive wire it sparked but did light. Did it again, did the same thing. Tried the other side, nothing. Back to the first side, nothing. These headlights have to be 12 volts don't they? Kind of afraid to try the other headlight now.
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Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 406
Backyard Mechanic
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OP
Backyard Mechanic
Joined: Sep 2004
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Thanks for the diagram. It looks like mine is the 3rd from the top listed as 56-57 so I guess it would be 12 volts.
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Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 406
Backyard Mechanic
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OP
Backyard Mechanic
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 406 |
For what it's worth, I believe the negative post is on the left as pictured above not the center. Hence, the sparks and the no longer working headlights.
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Joined: Nov 2001
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ChatMaster - 15,000
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ChatMaster - 15,000
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The safer way to test the light would be with a VOM or test light. That only puts a small current though the filaments. The low beam lights should have two circuits. High beam only one.
How Sweet the roar of a Chevy four!
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