How Do I remove 1940 ford headlight switch knob.

[19Fordy]

I know Iv'e seen this posted on Fordbarn but, I searched and can't find it

I want to remove my 1940 Ford headlight switch but need to remove knob to do it. Can't recall how I did it years ago.
Help please. Thanks, JIM

[nebrfox]

I believe you will find a small hole in the switch body and if you push a wire thru the hole and pull on the knob it should come out.

[JayChicago]

The release is through a tiny hole on the side of the switch. Going by memory from a few years ago, I think it was on the driver's side of the switch. I think I used a paper clip in there. Push to release the spring clip inside the switch, knob and shaft pulls out.

[19Fordy]

Thank you very much. Will push and pull as directed.

[Kube]

Originally Posted by 19Fordy

Thank you very much. Will push and pull as directed.

Jim, In my opinion, get ready for some frustration - they never seem to come out easy.
Yes, as others have responded, there's a small hole on the bottom of the switch where one inserts a paper clip and in theory the knob can be removed.
For me it never seems to be that easy.
Watch, now that I said that, you'll shove a clip in the hole and gently and quickly remove the knob.

[19Fordy]

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Yes, Kube, a bit frustrating but, "got it".

FIRST DISCONNECT YOUR BATTERY.

Then I loosened the lock nut holding switch to dash so I could pull the switch towards the fire wall to see the little hole. Otherwise the hole is hidden by the bottom lip of the dash and you can't get to it. It looks like an original switch.

Then pulled the knob all the way out as if I were turning on the headlights.
Then inserted 3/32 in. dia. pin punch in little hole and while pushing down and wiggling the punch gently pulled off knob. Knob almost almost fell off. I suppose it would also work if you first didn't pull knob all the way out but, I don't know for sure.

I staged these photo after knob came off.

Hope this helps others like you folks helped me. Thank you everyone for your help.

[Kube]

I'm happy for ya Jim. Next time, I'll try a larger diameter "pin".
Your switch must've been mounted incorrectly as the hole should have been on the side when the switch is in the dash board.

[19Fordy]

WOW! "Holy Photon". I now "see the light". Thanks "Kube".

I'm the guy who installed it back in 1988 when I put in new harness. Being on it's side would have made life easier today. Will reinstall it correctly this time. Thank you.