Funny how you notice things more after you fix a problem...

Sep 28, 2006 2 Replies

My experience with the alternator/battery makes me almost panic now when I turn on the headlights and the clock dims. Cars really play psychological games on you don't they? LOL



So far problem's not returned, but I'm ever watchful of that damned little clock oO



Well, you don't say which model or year, but AFAIK, the clock is SUPPOSED to dim when the lights are on.

There is a four-wire connector in the back of the clock: +12V from the ignition, +12V from the battery, Ground and +~V from the light switch. When the lights are turned on, a + voltage is applied to the +~V wire and the clock dims. (I say +~V because I have never measured it...if it comes from the switch before the dimmer, then it's +12V, if after then it is varied by the dimmer. My thought is that it actually comes from the switch and not the dimmer, so it would be +12V)

If it wasn't doing it before, then there was another problem you inadvertantly fixed in the process!

Yup, it does so at least on my 91 Corolla Wagon ...

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