Ford escort lights

[ray bush]

Got a problem on the wifes L reg escort .

When you turn the lights on ,at times you wont get any rear lights,panel lights etc.I replaced the switch on the steering column with one from the breakers( ummm), this seemed to work for a while then we had the same problem.I'm aware that this model had developed faults in the fuse/junction box with bad solder points ,but if you mess with the switch at times the lights work .Dont know whether to buy a new switch and eliminate that .Took all the fuses out and made sure that they had good contact and at the moment the lights seem to work.
Any ideas .

[NORMANTHEDOG]

it could be you have a bad earth some where,that can make all the difference,

[colin6789]

I had a similar problem with a N reg. Transit and it was the contacts in the connector from the light switch arm and the loom. One of the Spring fingers was stuck and I freed it with a thin screwdriver. It that is not it the connector may be burnt out by shorting, there is a repair connector avialable from your ford dealer if not a cheeper place.

[Toneisok]

This is a recognised fault with the light switch, if you have tried one from the wreckers you have just been unlucky. A non gen replacement part should cost around �20. If you do buy a new one dont forget to swap the indicator relay into the new switch. ( little black square relay under switch )

[david1702198]

make sure the three contact plates next to the boot lock are clean and free of dirt. also make sure the three contact pins on the boot lid ar clean and not stuck.