Topic: Removing control switch screws

[eigenvector]

I have a short circuit in the control switch, most likely the headlight switch.

So removing the screws I notice that the interior screws are outright impossible to move.  The screws holding on the plates that secure the wiring are without a doubt the softest of metal and secured on like they hold the universe together.

To prevent stripping them out - does anyone here recommend a technique for removing them.  I've tried liquid wrench, that did nothing.  I'm loathe to try heat in the event I melt the wiring making my problem worse than it already is.

[Don R]

 Put your best fitting screwdriver in the screw and whack it with a hammer.  Be sure it's resting on something soft and secure.

[Airborne 82nd]

Put your best fitting screwdriver in the screw and whack it with a hammer.  Be sure it's resting on something soft and secure.

That is the important part. If you try heat use only a hair dryer.

[eigenvector]

Well I didn't have to whack it with a hammer, but after a day and a half soaking in WD-40 and using my best screwdriver, I managed to get the interior plates loose.

Prognosis - there was a colony of (dead) flies tucked in there and the solder joint for the high beam is just BARELY out of contact with the power joint.  I'll have to file down the solder some more to prevent arcing and what I assume was the cause of my short.  Plus I'll need to dry it out and clean the assembly - it's soaked with oil and rain.