Remove and replace the headlight switch on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine, including removal of instrument panel bezels and electrical disconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight switch × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent for 1970 AMC

Preparation

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable and secure it away from the battery terminal
2. Allow the vehicle interior to cool if it has been in direct sunlight
3. Position the steering wheel in the straight-ahead position for better access
4. Gather all tools and replacement parts before beginning

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove headlight switch knob
   Pull the headlight switch knob to the full ON position. Locate the small release button on the switch body behind the dashboard (access may require reaching under the dash). Depress the release button with a small screwdriver or stiff wire while pulling the knob and shaft assembly straight out from the switch body.
2. 2

   Remove instrument cluster bezel screws
   Remove the Phillips head screws securing the instrument cluster bezel to the dashboard. There are typically 4-6 screws around the perimeter of the bezel. Keep screws organized for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Remove instrument cluster bezel
   Carefully pull the instrument cluster bezel away from the dashboard. Work gently to avoid breaking the plastic tabs. You may need to tilt or angle the bezel slightly to clear the steering column and other dashboard components.
4. 4

   Access headlight switch mounting
   With the bezel removed, locate the headlight switch body mounted in the dashboard structure. The switch is typically secured by a threaded bezel nut on the front face and may have a mounting bracket on the rear.
5. 5

   Remove switch bezel nut
   Using needle-nose pliers or a suitable wrench, unscrew the bezel nut from the threaded switch body. Turn counterclockwise to remove. The nut may be tight, so work carefully to avoid damaging the switch threads.
6. 6

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Reach behind the dashboard and locate the electrical connector on the rear of the headlight switch. Note the connector orientation or mark it with tape if needed. Firmly pull the connector straight off the switch terminals. If the connector has a locking tab, depress it before pulling.
7. 7

   Remove headlight switch
   Pull the headlight switch body forward and out through the front of the dashboard. If a mounting bracket is present, it may need to be removed separately or will come out with the switch.
8. 8

   Prepare new switch
   Compare the new headlight switch to the old unit to verify correct replacement. Ensure the shaft release button functions properly. Do not install the knob and shaft yet.
9. 9

   Install new switch body
   Insert the new headlight switch through the dashboard opening from the front. Ensure any mounting bracket is properly positioned. Thread the switch through until the threaded portion extends through the dashboard face.
10. 10

    Connect electrical connector
    Reach behind the dashboard and firmly push the electrical connector onto the rear terminals of the new switch. Ensure the connector is fully seated and properly oriented. Tug gently to verify connection is secure.
11. 11

    Secure switch with bezel nut
    Thread the bezel nut onto the switch body from the front and tighten clockwise using needle-nose pliers or a suitable wrench. Tighten firmly but do not overtighten, as this can crack the dashboard or damage the switch threads.
12. 12

    Install knob and shaft assembly
    Align the shaft with the switch body and push firmly until you hear or feel the shaft click into place. The release button should engage and lock the shaft in position. Verify the shaft rotates and pulls out/pushes in smoothly for dimmer function if equipped.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the instrument cluster bezel by aligning it carefully and pressing into place
2. Install all bezel retaining screws and tighten securely but do not overtighten plastic components
3. Reconnect the negative battery cable

Verification

• Turn the headlight switch through all positions (off, parking lights, headlights) and verify all functions work correctly
• Test the dimmer function by rotating the knob to verify instrument panel lighting dims and brightens
• Check that all dashboard lights and exterior lights operate properly in each switch position
• Verify the headlight switch knob does not pull out inadvertently during normal operation
• Ensure the instrument cluster bezel is secure with no rattles or gaps

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