Fuse block problem and no headlights...please help

[billabong25]

I have a 1971 FJ40 and my headlights have stopped working. All other parking/marker/tail lights are working, just not my headlights. I know absolutely nothing about the electrical aspect of vehicles. I thought to check and test the fuses and fuse block. I am using a test light and have power to the top 3 fuses but not the bottom 3. I took the fuse block off and cleaned all of the connections and still have the same problems. The wire that leads to/away from the bottom half of the fuse block (single wire on the lower right side in the picture) is black with a white stripe. Can anyone tell me if the headlight problem and the lack of power to the bottom 3 fuses are related? And if so, how do i fix this problem? Also, by description, can someone also tell me how trace this black/white wire and where it may go? Sorry for the remedial questions but I really have no clue. Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

[pb4ugo]

I'm not familiar w/that type on fuse block, but on the later models the black wire w/the yellow stripe is the ignition circuit(the lower right wire). Did you have the key in the on position when you were testing? I think the headlight fuse should be hot w/out the key on. Check on Coolermans website he has good info on old FJ40 wiring diagrams.

 

[billabong25]

pb4ugo -- Thanks for the knowledge. I just now walked outside and tested them with the key on and they did in fact have power. I really appreciate that info and your time to respond.

Now I only have the headlight problem to figure out. Anyone have any ideas?

 

[3_puppies]

next check the switch, power in, power out
if good there, check the block on the pass side front fender for power to the headlights

it's just a step by step procedure, follow the path of current flow.

 

[45Kevin]

I think the headlights run off a relay instead of a fuse. Relays usually are housed in a black plastic box about the size of a matchbox or your flasher unit. I'm not sure where it would be located in your truck though.

If you have a manual that would have info on any relays on your truck. You could also search mud for headlight relays.

 

[pb4ugo]

I think the headlights run off a relay instead of a fuse. Relays usually are housed in a black plastic box about the size of a matchbox or your flasher unit. I'm not sure where it would be located in your truck though.

If you have a manual that would have info on any relays on your truck. You could also search mud for headlight relays.

I don't think L/C's are wired that way. Yrs ago B4 I went to a later model steering column, w/a bright lite/turn switch, my switch was on the floor & dirt & mud screwed up the switch operation. Check your switch as mentioned b4, then check the bright switch for power & operation. I later moved the floor switch so I could operate it by hand.

 

[fj404life]

No relay unless someone added one.
Top fuse should be your headlights (I think looks same as my 69). If there is power there check at the dimmer floor switch, and the junction blocks on the inner front fenders. The dimmer switch can get stuck between high/low and cut power to the lights...real fun when it happens driving down the road!
Your fusebox is pretty skanky btw. You can still get new ones from Toyota. As well as the junction blocks on the fenders.

 

[DSRTRDR]

Coolerman is the expert for '71 wiring, check his posts and find his website with detailed descriptions

 

[billabong25]

I have found Coolerman's website and it does have a ton of great info. I appreciate the heads up guys. I'll have to put back some time and soak it all in.
I have had problems with the dimmer switch, but trying to find another switch was pretty tough. I was able to get a couple from 2 FJ40s I bought for parts/projects. When I hook either one of my 2 spare switches up, I lose all of the lights. Now I have the original switch hooked back up and have all lights except for the headlights. The original one does not click anymore when you try to switch from low beams to high beams.

 

[066wally]

My guess would be the dimmer switch. Try finding an aftermarket one at your local auto parts store. I have to stomp on my switch to get it to change and sometimes the headlights go out until I stomp on it again.

 

[DSRTRDR]

cleaning the switch may help

 

[Degnol]

cleaning the switch may help

X2 and take out the fuse and clean the connectors with sandpaper, replace with a new fuse.

 

[Coolerman]

Popping in to help as best I can. Try this link for help with the dimmer switch:
https://forum.ih8mud.com/40-55-series-tech/230731-dimmer-switch-tech.html

 

[65swb45]

Ummm, try hotwiring the high and low beams individually to the power lead on the dimmer switch and see what happens?

KIS


Best

Mark A.