| FAQ |
| Members List |
| Social Groups |
| Calendar |
| Search |
| Today's Posts |
|
#1
08-18-2025, 01:27 AM
|
|||
|
|||
1966 GP separating headlight switch from wire connector block
I am trying to replace the headlight switch on my 1966 Pontiac Grand Prix but having difficulty separating the wire connector block from the switch. The switch and connector block design – plus the actual location of the switch (after removing it from the dash) - do not allow one to exert much direct puling pressure on the connector block. And there is no easy way to insert a flat head screwdriver under most of the connector block to pry it loose from the switch without running the risk of cracking the connector block. Everything is in great condition, no visible corrosion or rust to overcome yet the connector block just won’t separate from the switch. Any tricks I should be aware of?
|
|
#2
08-18-2025, 10:16 AM
|
|||
|
|||
|
I have always put the widest flat screwdriver in there that I could wiggle in, then gently worked it while I pull up. And not just in one area, I try to do different areas.
For the record, I've never cracked one of those connectors. I've found them to be pretty tough. If you do break it, I have a good used spare connector for you.
__________________
1966 Strato Chief 427 4 Speed 45,000 miles 1966 Grande Parisienne 396 4 Speed Factory Air (1 of 23) |
|
#3
08-18-2025, 08:31 PM
|
|||
|
|||
|
Carl S - looks like your advice provides the only practical solution to separate the switch from the wire connecting block. But I am getting too old to do much under-dash work! God willing, I won't have to buy your spare!
|
|
#4
08-19-2025, 02:12 AM
|
|||
|
|||
|
Good luck and let me know if you need it. At least you know you won't be shafted if you break it!
__________________
1966 Strato Chief 427 4 Speed 45,000 miles 1966 Grande Parisienne 396 4 Speed Factory Air (1 of 23) |
|
#5
08-19-2025, 10:55 AM
|
|||
|
|||
|
I have used a 1" or 1.5" stiff putty knife to pry those connectors off the switch. The more terminals you can get under to pry or twist the knife, the less chance to cracking the connector. If you do break it, I may have a pigtail connector for a 65-66 switch. PM me if you end up needing one.
|
|
#6
08-19-2025, 11:43 AM
|
||||
|
||||
|
Can the switch be removed first from the dash for better access?
|
|
#7
08-19-2025, 04:55 PM
|
|||
|
|||
|
You should be able to. First you remove the knob and stem by pushing the release on the back side, then the bezel.
|
|
#8
08-19-2025, 07:52 PM
|
|||
|
|||
|
Even with the headlight switch removed from the dash, the wire loom is just not long enough to drop the headlight switch assembly down very far - which limits access to the switch and connector and also limits the amount of muscle power you can focus on separating the components. And this is after removing the ac ducting. A modified putty knife may be the way to go.
|
| Reply |
|
|
The PY Online Forums is the largest online gathering of Pontiac enthusiasts anywhere in the world. Founded in 1991, it was also the first online forum for people to gather and talk about their Pontiacs. Since then, it has become the mecca of Pontiac technical data and knowledge that no other place can surpass.
Linear Mode
