No taillights, sidemarker, dash, etc

[mrbodie]

Sometimes when I start my 72 240Z, the tail lights, side marker lights, dash lights, and radio will not work. When this happens, the headlights still work and the turn signals still work. I usually turn the engine on and off a bunch of times and they all come back on. Where do I start looking for the source of my problem? Thanks.

bodie@sti.net

[texas hammer]

i would start at the headlight switch and follow it to the lights but it probily a burnt power lead to the fuse panel or switch

[Alex 240Z]

I have had the same problem for the last year and still can not find the problem my side marker, tail lights, and dash lights never come on!!!! but brake lights work blinkers work head lights work map light work and I do not have a radio installed !!! Not to experienced in trouble shotting electrical probems !!!!

[Victor Laury]

Fuse,

Right hand side of the fuse box, three down.

Replace that one with a NEW one, AFTER you clean the clips thoughly, and give them a bit of a tightening squeeze.

[Mr Camouflage]

Chec the fuses and the fuse box for loose connections, then try the ignition switch.

When the key is in start position, power to all the accessories is cut off to provide more cranking amps. Theoretically, when you release the key ,the spring returns the switch back to the "on "position and all your accessories are switched back on.

But things can wear out on 30 year old cars. It sound like the switch isn't returning to the on position propperly, so your accessories arent getting power.

Next time it happens, try applying some pressure to the key as if you were turning the engine off, but not enough to put it back to the acc position and see if you get the accessoris back.

[Da Flash]

For what it's worth, when I had the same problem with my lights a new fuse and fusebox did the trick, I had the dreaded melted fusebox, if I jiggled the fuse (3rd one down on the right) I could get them to work sometimes.

[59ghia]

Been there done that too!!! My fuse looked ok, but the cap seperated , and alittle brown suff was coming out between the left cap and glass. My fuse box was starting to melt on that left side lug. I half arsed repaired that lug and haven't blown a fuse since. You can also "rebuild" your light switch. Do a search, there's a thread around here somewhere were I described how I did it.

Good luck,

Dave

[Downfall]

have had the exact same problem for the longest time and my fuses and fuse box are fine...any other suggestions?

[TomoHawk]

Wass it tough to get the fuse box out? Oops, I got a 280Z, and I thought I would soak the fusebox in vinegar for a day or two.. just the connector(s).