Turns out that the headlight dim switch is actually part of the wiper switch
assembly (251 953 519). There is a mechanical interface from the turn signal
switch assembly (251 953 513) but the actual switch part (the part that
fails due to the entire current of the headlights passing thru it) is part
of the wiper switch assembly. Fascinating!

On Mon, Jul 20, 2009 at 7:33 AM, Kim Brennan <kimbrennan@mac.com> wrote:

> Yep. All one (expensive) unit. The main reason these switches fail is
> oxidation of the contacts, leading to overheating and melting of the
> plastic. VW puts the whole current going to the headlights through the
> switch, so the best method to preserve your replacement switch is to put
> relays into your headlight circuitry.
>
> Also note that 91 Vanagons use a different switch than earlier years.
>
>
> On Jul 20, 2009, at 9:48 AM, Mike Frost wrote:
>
> Hello all,
>>
>> While camping this weekend my headlights failed and I traced it down to
>> the
>> dim/bright switch on the column. (replaced the main headlight switch last
>> year) If I purchase a turn signal switch, does it include the headlight
>> dim
>> switch?
>>
>> Mike Frost
>> 1986 Vanagon GL
>> 'Wasserleaker'
>>
>
>