Pininfarina Spider Azzura headlight switch

[spider2081]

I am trying to figure out how the headlight switch is suppose to work on a 1984 Spider. I have a used switch assembly I am trying to test and do not have the car. Its sort of a rotary type 3 position switch. I think the center position is parking lights. I thought the furthest to the right would be headlights on and no parking lights. Furthest to the left would be off. I cant seem to get this one to trace that way. Also I think the parking lights can be on with the ignition switch off but for headlights to work the ignition switch has to be in the "run" position.

Does anyone own a car or have a owners manual that could help me understand how the switch is suppose to work.

THanks

[ekstrandt]

From the 85 manual.

[spider2081]

Thank you. The switch I have has another switch at the top of the steering column for the parking lights. I thought the headlights went through that also. I will try rotating the hi/lo lever. This car is an 84

[spider2081]

Thank you. The switch I have has another switch at the top of the steering column for the parking lights. I thought the headlights went through that also. I will try rotating the hi/lo lever. This car is an 84

[aaalbedo]

Operation is (poorly) described on the page previous to the one shown above. When centered, this switch activates a separate circuit that bypasses the key and powers parking lights, instrument panel lights, license plate light, dash control switch lighting (power window switches etc.) and cigar lighter. The switch is mechanically cancelled (turned to left or right) when the steering wheel is turned, similar to the turn signal cancel, so you can't leave the circuit on when driving.

Larry

[spider2081]

The switch I have does have that tab and is turned off when the steering wheel is rotated. That is the 3 position switch on the top of the steering column.
I never tried to rotate the lever that is the hi/lo beam switch to try and make it work. I will try that today and let you know what I find. Thanks again for your help.

[ekstrandt]

Switch operates as Larry states. Sorry I was thinking wrong switch (obviously).

[bradartigue]

You should scan that whole book and send it over, I'll post it. I've never seen a pininfarina owner's manual, even when I owned one. Rare stuff you got there.

[spider2081]

I re-checked the switch assembly yesterday with an ohm meter. It works exactly as the manual says it should. The markings on the lever were worn off and I didn't think to rotate it. So I am a happy guy. I also looked at a headlight on/off hi/lo switch in an 85's and it is broken. The outer shaft just spins on the metal inner shaft. Wonder if that is a common problem.

I agree with Brad. It would be wonderful if the 1985 Manual could be scanned and posted somewhere. Does anyone know if any of our vendors sells the "owners Manual" or copies of them for the Pinna series of cars??

[ekstrandt]

Copied the book and sent you a email Brad.

[bradartigue]

Awesome - I just emailed you my email address...or PMed you (whatever it sends you, here or via email)

[spider2081]

Thanks to both of you.. That was a great help.

[aaalbedo]

I'll scan my '83 manual too in case there's a difference. A few months ago someone listed a reprint of an '84 manual on eBay for about $100.

Can't believe there are still gaps in Brad's collection!

Lw

[madspeed]

New 83 Spider owner here, care to share the copy of the manual?? I had no clue what that 3 position switch was either, along with how to operate the heater controls and levers as the decal are faded or worn off. Can either PM or send to my email at madspeed50@gmail(dot)com

Thanks fellas!

[ekstrandt]

Just go to Brad's site (link is at the bottom of his posts) and you can get the manual and much more.