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On your 1979 John deere Spitfire Snowmobile what could cause brand new headlights to work only for a second after skidoo is turned on and then quite working?

Incorrect Wiring: When the headlights turn on for a second and then go out, it could be due to incorrect wiring. For instance, the connection between the headlight switch and the headlights may be loose or may have a faulty wire, causing the headlights to receive power for a brief moment and then lose it.

Switch or Relay: If the headlights work initially but then turn off, the issue could be with the headlight switch or the relay that controls them. A faulty switch or a relay with burnt-out contacts could interrupt the power supply to the headlights, resulting in the quick flicker you're observing.

Voltage Regulator: The voltage regulator on the snowmobile is responsible for regulating the electrical power going to the various components, including the headlights. If the voltage regulator is malfunctioning or damaged, it might be sending insufficient or fluctuating voltage to the headlights, causing them to behave erratically.

Ground Connection: Poor ground connections can also cause the headlights to behave strangely. Ensure the grounding points and wires related to the headlights are clean, properly secured, and have a good connection to the chassis of the snowmobile.

Additional Tips:

1. Check the fuses and ensure that the one specific to the headlight circuit is intact and functioning properly.

2. Perform some basic troubleshooting by connecting the headlights directly to the battery using a temporary setup to see if they work consistently. This will help you determine whether the issue lies within the headlight assembly itself or the electrical system.

3. If you have a digital multimeter, you can check the voltage at the headlight connectors to verify that it remains constant both when the headlights turn on and when they go out.

4. If none of the above tips help resolve the issue, I recommend taking the snowmobile to a professional mechanic who specializes in small engines or snowmobiles. They will have the expertise and diagnostic equipment to further assess and fix the problem.