Headlights not working properly...

[storm99]

Hi All,
I have got a problem with my headlights. The sidelights work OK, and the full (high) beam works OK too, but the dipped (main) beam doesn't work at all, the sidelights just stay on!
Every other light in the car works fine (including fogs, which I have to use all the time at the moment), and I have changed both headlight bulbs and checked every fuse in the car.
Anyone got any ideas?
It's a '92 MX-3 V6 if that makes any difference.
Thanks in advance,
Storm

[Taras]

If all your light work besides low beams, then my guess it is either your combination switch or a connection at the combination switch. Just my guess.

[papa roached]

arent the bulbs dual filament, maybe your lows burned out

[Grants]

Looks like both beams work through the headlight relay so it shouldn't be that. If the lamps are ok I'd look at the column swith too.

I spent a bit of time looking for a fault in my tail light circuit that ended up being the column switch. We removed the switch, filled it up with WD40 and its still working. The switch mechanism can be removed quite easily - its a seperate part to the lever but you need a 90 degree ratchet Philips head.

[storm99]

Thanks guys. I'll take the column apart tonight and have a look.

[storm99]

OK - HELP!
Took the colum apart, got the switch unit out, cleaned the contacts and then put it back and tested it - worked intermittently. Took it back out and cleaned it some more, then put it back. Something sparked when I was putting it back, and now I have lost most of the electrics to the car!
The headlights and high beam now works, but I have lost the dash lights, side lights, the dome lights, the door lock illumination and the hazard lights...
When I start the car, The dome lights come on really dim, and so do the side lights. When I use the turn signals, they work, but the tick inside the car is waaaaay too fast, and the tail lights flash with the turn signal!
Has anyone seen this before! It feels like a bad earth connection, but I have no idea where to look!
BTW - I have pulled and checked all the fuses from BOTH fuse boxes (footwell + engine bay) and all of them are fine.
Any help greatly appreciated - I'm freaking out!

[Grants]

Yea it does sound like a grounding problem. Where was the spark? Was it a bit one or just a flash?

I can send you a diagram if you let me know your email address.

[storm99]

Thanks man. It was a big flash from the top of the steering column, behind the wheel. I'll private message my address to you.

[Taras]

I guess it is a wee bit late, but remember to disconnect the battery when working with electrical stuff on the car.

[storm99]

OK, the auto electrician has just left. There was a wire shorting behind the stereo that had put a hairline crack in the BTN 60amp fuse in the box under the hood. Fixed the short, replaced the fuse and all is working, including all of my headlights!
Thanks to all who posted replies, especially Grant.