P11 running without headlamp

I think I have seen the P11 headlamps refered to as quick release. What do you do with all the headlamp harness wires if you run without a headlamp. The ammeter wires need to be connected for it to spark. However it looks like the headlamp harness is still not disconnectable from the main harness, which leaves a few hot wires exposed to short out.

I have broken a couple Lucas leadlamps and dented buckets and gauges. Not by me crashing, but by a improvised sidestand someone put on. After the 2nd time, I removed the crap sidestand but it also showed me the high vulnerability of the headlamp if the bike falls. Important for me as I ride it off road.

I will go have a look , but from memory, non of the P11, P11A lights are quickly detached for competition.
The taillight can be removed and has bullet plugs to allow removal.
The Lucas headlight would be a major job, as you have pointed out.

That's rather strange, isn't it? The G80CS kept its quick release plugs at the h/l shell right to the end in 1968, albeit running at 6V only and a magneto ignition.
Currents are higher than in the 12V network, thus power transfer can't be a limiting factor.
Maybe AMC feared a short or connector problems in the long run, since the bike is dependable on a working electrical system?
Some Triumphs were equipped with quick release plugs and h/l shells as well. BSA/Triumph switched to 12V in 1966 (2 years after AMC did!) and you'd have to look at the outfitting of a 1967-70 TR6C to verify if Lucas offered the quick release plugs for 12V systems.

-Knut

Still looking for a way to hide the wires when running headlamp bucket-removed. Maybe run back under the tank?

elefantrider said:

Still looking for a way to hide the wires when running headlamp bucket-removed. Maybe run back under the tank?

Click to expand...

Best to have a detachable part of the wire loom. As the ignition circuit is centered around battery and coil location, you are unplugging lights and horn (you don't want to unplug the stop button).
For period looks you could use a Lucas connector rubber block under the petrol tank near the headstock, allowing several bullet type connectors to be unplugged. This would allow the headlight bucket, along with dip and horn at the handlebar, to be taken off.

Another option is to fit a Lucas automotive 7 or 9 way connector kit. Not period looks but who cares as it's out of sight? You would strap it to the spine tube.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Genuine-...m=141376181875&_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851

-Knut

Thanks Knut,
The volt meter wires need to be connected for the bike to spark. What is the red light indicator, is that high beam? Mine is broken anyway, as is the volt meter, not sure if available now. Original black buckets and chrome rings are hard to find for sure. That is the reason I’m ditching mine for now. It needs some serious straightening.

Unsure what to do with the light switch. Need to see if it can be disconnected.