1940 Mystery Switch

[Branded]

I bought a 40 Standard a few months back and have been going through the mechanicals. I was laying on the floor looking behind the dash and under the steering column near the column drop is a small knob that operates a switch. The knob is white or tan about the size of a tire valve stem cap. Can you tell me what it controls.

Thanks ,Dave

[Newc]

Hi; Sounds like the instrument lights dimmer. should have a 'pot' [reostat] to it Newc

[Branded]

Sounds like the mystery has been solved. I have the engine , trans, and battery removed so I couldn’t operate any of the electricals to see what it controlled.

Dave

[JSeery]

Here is the wiring diagram if you don't have it. VanPelts site is a great source for information and parts.

[Branded]

Originally Posted by JSeery

Here is the wiring diagram if you don't have it. VanPelts site is a great source for information and parts.

Thanks, yes Van Pelts is only 45 minutes from me. He’s rebuilding a 39 toploader transmission for me that’s going to find it’s way into my 40.

[4dFord/SC]

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If the battery were connected, you would likely find the instrument lights barely visible to the naked eye, even at the switch's highest setting. For that reason, many of us simply bypass the switch.

[51woodie]

I'm not sure about a '40 dash dimmer switch, but if it is the same as the one on my '46, I took it apart (a couple of bent over tabs to open) and there was a lot of dirt in it. I cleaned up the resister winding and the wiper, put it back together and it works like new. Dash lights go from dim to bright. One other thing. Pull the instrument bulb holders and clean the bulbs. mine had a coating of dirt/dust.

[Branded]

Thanks all for the insight