Lights dimming

[ACOC]

The lights on my 79 flicker when I have them on. It is not dramatic but noticable. Am I having an alternator problem or somthing else?
Thanks Kevin #3241

[junebob]

Kevin #3241.-FLICKERING LIGHTS. First you need to determine if only your head lights flicker,or if your tail lights and dash lights flicker at the same time. Once you determine that you can determine where to look.If all flicker ,check for a loose connection at your ignition switch or headlight switch, or a faulty connection or shorted wire  at those locations.[Also if your head lights only, flicker when they are on high beam, check dimmer switch and connection].If any one set of your lights flicker[head, tail,or instruments]check for  a loose connection or a shorting wire on that light circuit Good Luck Bob Chaney#2626.

[Shayne]

Bob's tips sound great for troubleshooting actual flickering of the lights. meaning going on and off quickly.  But I have also heard people use the term flickering when the lights are actaully just dimming. Especially if it's dimming in cycles that increase and decrease with engine speed.  In this case, the alternator/voltage regulator is where to start looking.

[phjak]

I highly recommend purchasing a voltmeter such as the type you can plug into your cigarette lighter socket.  They are availible at campingworld for about 12 bucks.  Monitoring this will keep you aware of the condition of your charging system.  Flucutations can be a sign of a deteriorating charging system.  I added a couple of sockets on my dash for this and other gadgets.

[egibbons]

I had a similar problem I'd cll rhythmical dimming of the lights. The problem turned out to be the regulator, which was also cutting out completely at times. does the "flickering" follow movement of the amp gauge? if so, I'd consider the regulator after checking every ground connection I could find.

Eric #3021

[normy]

If your lights dim at low rpm the cause could be the relay thats attached to the circit board of the spedometer cluster I got the diagram from Haynes manual the plug was wired backwards or looking at the front instead of the rear makes you wonder if it came like that from Dodge the problem is to many amps for all clearance and tail lights. two wires for front and rear lights I split the one for rear and installed a spring lever switch for flashing rear lights