Expert: jack bahm - 6/4/2008

Question
The lights on my 31 A do not work. They were working at one time but now they do not. I have cleaned all connections and grounds. I suspect the problem is in the light switch housing or the wire from the gen. cutout to the light switch. The DOES work. The stop lights, which were working do not work as well and they are independent of the light switch.
I would appreciat any suggestions.
Ted Baker

Answer
Get yourself a volt meter, or a small light bulb with a clip on one wire and a needle on the other wire.  When you touch the clamp to ground and stick the pin in a wire (through the insulation), the light will light if you have 6 volts there.  Start at the generator and confirm that there is power there.  Take the switch pod off and check for power on the pins.  You really should have a wiring diagram to do the job right.  Get Les Andrews Model A Mechanics Hand Book.  It is very good and will tell you how to fix most anything on an A.  Get it through MARC.  It's about $30-$35.  Well worth it.  We all have a copy.  Be sure you get the red book.  I don't like his other books.  Also,  Join a Model A car club and you will get more help than you can imagine.  If you have the diagrams, the light switch pod is quite simple and easy to trouble shoot. Go to Ahooga.com and see what they have that might help you.  Lot of good stuff there.
Good luck.
jack