Subject: Headlamp Flicker
Model and Year: 1959 Passenger Cars
Source: Chevrolet Technical Service Bulletin
Bulletin Number: TSB #586, Section VI Y
Date: January 27, 1959
Headlamp flicker, similar to but not as severe as that encountered on early 1958 models may be noted on some 1959 passenger cars. The condition is attributed to oxidation of the voltage regulator contact points due mainly to a quantity of regulators remaining unsealed at the plant for an abnormally long period of time.
The regulators in question were built during September, October and November, 1958 and may be identified by the date codes, 8J, 8K, or 8L stamped on the base. Regulators built prior to September, 1958 and during January, 1959 (code 9A) should be satisfactory. Regulators produced in December, 1958 (code 8M) having a dash mark between the three part number digits are the letter "C" stamped on the regulator (001-C) should also be satisfactory.
This point oxidation condition will not result in electrical system failure nor will it reduce the life of any electrical parts, but may cause headlamp flicker which is annoying to some owners.
When objectionable headlamp flicker occurs, the voltage regulator should be replaced. Replacement regulators are OK as only a very small quantity manufactured during the period in question reached parts stock.
JE MacKenzie
Service & Mechanical Department
General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
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Article ID: 778
Created: August 3, 2014
Last Updated: August 3, 2014
Online URL: https://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/tech/knowledgebase/article/1959-corvette-service-bulletin-headlamp-flicker-778.html