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MG MGA - Headlight Dipper Switch

I'm looking for the headlight dipper switch that was installed on some MGAs just above the turn signal lever. It is featured on page 50 of Clausager's book and referenced as an "option for North American cars" but I've never seen one.

Anyone know of a similar switch to use as substitute? Seems like a great option considering the awkward position of the floor switch. I'm considering the horn button/dipper that was used on T-series but it is (ahem) $70 repro...
Jim Paul

I think you'll find it is a headlamp flasher switch not a dip switch.
malcolm asquith

So it is only for flashing? You can't use it to operate hi-beams for driving?

I thought it was similar to my MGB flasher; up for hi-beams and down (momentary) for flashing.
Jim Paul

You could certainly fit a dip switch in that position.
But, looking at the 1600 wiring diagram, the original option was for a switch that held a relay operated for as long as the switch was held. The relay connected power to the main beam filaments only (and the warning lamp).
malcolm asquith

Jim - Maybe while you're at it you could combine it with the horn button, too, for the ultimate MGB experience. :-)
David Breneman

Jim and anyone else interested,

I have placed photos of an NOS example of the original Lucas switch and a modern alternative that is very close in appearance on my Sebring MGA web site at:

http://safetyfast.homestead.com/flasher.html

The modern switch from Holden in the UK runs about US$20 plus shipping at current exchange rates.

Frank
Frank Graham

Thanks Frank for pointing that out.

I remember seeing the Holden site before and thinking that I could replace my broken turn signal switch with their illuminated lever (020.072) -- then put a dipper switch in the hole where the green jewel indicator was. No extra holes to drill on the dash, and no functionality lost. And "almost" correct original appearance...
Jim Paul

Jim,
The original function was a headlight flasher and included was a relay. I've emailed you a diagram showing its placement and the placement of the relay. -M.S.
Martin Straka

Martin,

Could you please pass along those diagrams to me as well? I am interested in using this switch on my '62 MKII, but not sure of the exact place I need to drill on the dash. Thanks! (jhjuel@aol.com)

By the way, does anyone have diagrams or pictures of the optional cigarette lighter?
Joshua Juel

Thanks Martin for the email and file.

Joshua, both the dipper and cigarette lighter are shown in Clausager's restoration book. The dipper switch is directly above the turn signal lever.

The lighters I have seen were mounted in the same spot as the windshield washer pump, to the right of the choke knob. If you already had the washer, sometimes under the dash with a bracket!
Jim Paul

Joshua,
Check your email. As a relay is part of the circuit, I would caution using a the flasher switch as a substitute for the original dip switch without a relay directing the high amperage of the headlight's low beam / high beam connections. -M.S
Martin Straka

This thread was discussed between 11/02/2005 and 13/02/2005

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