GS850 Low beam keeps shutting off

[Guest]

Hi all,

I've noticed my low beam going off pretty frequently now. When I wiggle the hi/low beam switch it comes back on only to go out again.

I've taken the switch apart and tried to clean the contacts with basic contact cleaner. It almost seems as though it's the mechanical functioning. That it doesn't click in as well into the low beam location as the high beam. The switch seems to do this by having a plastic ball on a spring click into two groves, one for high beam one for low. I don't see any thing in the groves or an obvious reason why it wouldn't be working.

Anyone had this happen? A working headlight is kind of important.

[OldVet66]

Make sure the solder joints are good and grease the switch and contacts with dielectric grease before you put it together. I suspect the solder joint for the low beam is weak or the contact needs more cleaning. That green patina on the contacts has to go.

[RobertGS]

Thanks very much. Will do this weekend and report back.

I wonder if there's a thread around with just how many kinds of grease folks end up having in their garages? I'm losing track.

[RobertGS]

Went at the contacts again with emery paper and contact cleaner. Took my time, "washed it all in there afterwards with cue tips sprayed with contact cleaner.

Works great now so you were right, the contact needed more cleaning.

Lesson, take the time, do it right the first time.

[mvalenti]

Am I the only one who would have liked to see pictures? Anyway, well done!

[hannibal]

Always pleased to hear that elbow grease is the solution.