Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

Is it normal for the back side of the dash light dimmer switch to get so hot you can barely touch it?
Probably not ... and if not is there an easy fix or is it time to replace?
68 with a "custom" (some flat, some stock dash).

It might be a piece of dirt or wiper material laying across some of the windings causing a high current draw. The dimmer is an old-style rheostat with exposed windings and a wiper made of conductive carbon material - like a brush on a DC motor.

pull it out and brush it clean with a soft dry brush (paint or tooth). Measure the resistance with an ohm meter if you have one. First across the whole coil and then from one end of the coil to the wiper. Resistance should change as the wiper moves.

Thanks Joe...will try that out.