full beam switch position

Post by **picky** » Thu Dec 18, 2008 11:55 pm

i have my radio fitted in the middle of the parcel tray. it looked a bit tatty because it wasnt inside anything, so i fitted it inside a plastic fascia. trouble is that now it is almost impossible to reach the full beam switch with my foot without pressing the clutch. I imagine there are other people out there with the radio in this position, what did you do about the switch?

Picky

Post by **mike.perry** » Fri Dec 19, 2008 11:54 am

Bolt the radio under the passenger glove box so you can't reach it whilst you are driving and won't be distracted by trying to change stations / CDs on the move. Better still leave it off and listen to the engine.

Post by **jaekl** » Fri Dec 19, 2008 12:45 pm

We don't have this problem here in the States. The dimmer is below the clutch. It makes a nice dead pedal for the left foot. When I learned of the position for RHD, I couldn't understand how you ever find it. The best place I feel to put the audio system so as not to clutter the interior is under the boot floor in front of the spare and use a remote.

Post by **Alec** » Fri Dec 19, 2008 1:24 pm

Hello Picky,

the alternative is to fit a combined dip\full beam headlamp and indicator switch. I know that there is also the added complication with a Minor of having to fit a lamp(s) to let you know the indicators are on. I much prefer that than a foot operated dip switch.

Alec

Post by **bmcecosse** » Fri Dec 19, 2008 8:46 pm

Dunno how you expect to hear a wireless in a Minor ! Save weight -and use an iPod if you really must have music !

Post by **picky** » Fri Dec 19, 2008 9:22 pm

sound proofing behind the bulkhead, under the carpets and behind the door panels makes a huge difference, mostly because it fills in all the holes everywhere. Also 300W amp under the passenger seat from when i was younger and even more foolish

Moving the foot switch just below the clutch pedal sounds like the easiest option, as I imagine the cable will still reach aswell.

Picky

Post by **picky** » Tue Dec 23, 2008 12:10 am

does anyone have a picture of the LHD switch in position? im going to blu tack it about an inch below the clutch pedal and see how what that looks like. Im assuming for an MOT it has to a) work and b) not foul on anything else? is that it?

Picky

Post by **jaekl** » Tue Dec 23, 2008 1:04 pm

It will be a tight to get the switch between the clutch pedal and the gearbox tunnel. On LHD it's located just above the crease in the floor and there is a little room due to the curvature of the wheel well. With the right floor well even narrower than the left, you'll end up directly below the clutch pedal and I don't see how that would work.
Sorry, having a Minor, a camera, and a decent connection at one place won't happen for a while. I sure someone can supply a photo. If not, I get one after the holidays.

Post by **picky** » Tue Dec 23, 2008 6:22 pm

ive moved it to below the clutch pedal, and i think you would end up pressing it when changing gear. the switch is quite small without the pedestal that it is was attached to, so i think i should be able to move it around a bit and choose a slightly better place. Hopefully it will fit between the clutch and the gearbox tunnel.

Picky

Post by **millerman** » Tue Dec 23, 2008 11:41 pm

"the alternative is to fit a combined dip\full beam headlamp and indicator switch. I know that there is also the added complication with a Minor of having to fit a lamp(s) to let you know the indicators are on. I much prefer that than a foot operated dip switch."

This seems a really good idea. Can anyone tell me of a vehicle that would yield the above switch or can a generic switch be purchased.

Many thanks

Post by **aupickup** » Wed Dec 24, 2008 9:43 am

yes a mini i think

Post by **Kevin** » Wed Dec 24, 2008 12:10 pm

Im assuming for an MOT it has to a) work and b) not foul on anything else?

Hi Picky I think you will find that is a legal requirement to using it on the road not just the Mot.

Post by **aupickup** » Wed Dec 24, 2008 12:11 pm

for an a;ternative switch, you can use the oil light on the speedo for the flashing indicators

Post by **Mogwai** » Wed Dec 24, 2008 12:25 pm

My radio is fitted under the parcel shelf but I offset it to the passenger side slightly to improve access to the switch. the 5 spd transmission tunnel doesn't help ether but I can still get at it.
As another option could you not extend the cables & fit the switch somewhere easily accessible under the dash & operate it by hand?

Post by **picky** » Thu Dec 25, 2008 4:12 pm

lots of good points, thanks people. I really want this on the road so im going to try and find a satisfactory position of the switch on the floor for now, I rarely drive at night so if its a bit fiddly then im not too bothered. Will look out for a mini indicator switch going cheap and have that as a long term plan.

Oh and Merry Christmas everyone!!

Picky

Post by **bmcecosse** » Thu Dec 25, 2008 5:10 pm

One option is to rewire the dip beam so it always comes on with the headlamp switch. Then you just need a flip switch to bring on main beam when you want it - in addition to the dip beam. Much better lighting too!