Jay, I was just having this problem on my 89 Wolfsburg and if I
unplugged the headlight switch and plugged it back in, it would go
away.  Try that and maybe try swapping in a known good headlight switch
from another van and see if that works if the first thing doesn't.

Ken Wilford
John 3:16
www.vanagain.com

Jay lefstein wrote:
> hI guys I figure i will update you and ask for more help.
> I am working on my 1984 full westy with a bostig conversion ( 60,000
> kms on the conversion)
> it has a cluster from a 91 carat with tach.
> and jay brown bright light relays
>
> i have a power probe 3 wire tester ;) this tester is awesome. you plug
> it into your lighter or hook it directly to the battery. when you
> touch a wire it tells you wether it's ground or power..
>
> SYMPTOMS:   key in ignition but not on, turn headlight switch on and
> it's as if you turned the key on.
>                            if the van is running and i turn my
> headlight switch on the  the tach needle drops and the lights flash
> like i just turned the key on.
>
> trial and era: I have checked all the grounds at the ground stars/
> spiders under the dash above the fuse panel. they all check out fine!
>                         I have tried a brand spanking new electrical
> portion of the ignition switch, and a few used ones. none helped
>                         I has ground at most of the terminals on the
> fuse panel when the key is off, i don't think this is normal??? is it?
> ( when key is on it switch's to power )
>
> thoughts:      I don't think there should be ground on my fuse panel
>
>                        I am stumped..
>
>                        any suggestions ?? any other place to check ,
> relays to try? ANYTHING?????
>
> thanks
> Jay
>