I think the hood lamp switch is bad


How hard is it to get to?

 

To answer my own question, the switch is a tiny metal half capsule with contacts in it, and it feels like its filled with a ball bearing or (from what I could find) mercury

The contacts on the capsule had loads of trash on them which I think bridged the connection enough to act as a resistor.

I cleaned it all up and its working now.

 

It probably is mercury, as it is in another vehicle I own

Good post, I been meaning to have a look at mine

Now I will

 

Thanks, I couldn't find any pictures of this thing, just some vague descriptions on other forums

 

What usually happens is the mercury either dries out or leaks out or they dont conduct current anymore in 50ye old Jags

They are a "tilt" switch, so only alight when bonnet (or boot) is opened

I strongly suspect no replacements are available, due to the mercury, and they are also specially shaped for their spot, so I dont know how to overcome that issue, or what they do in more modern cars

I will just do what you did, inspired by your boldness, and just strip it down

I have 3 x 96 (and a bonnet!), so maybe I can get one to work for my DD

Maybe one day I will have every single thing working perfectly !

 

I'm pretty sure it's a metal ball in there and not mercury.

 

It feels like mercury sloshing around in it and theres no ticking when shaken

 

I just bought a replacement one from Amazon. It was like $16 or something, is LED and looks a lot like the factory one.

 

Thanks q2q

do you have a link ?

 

Huh. Mine clicks and doesn't slosh. Go figure.