Bench testing a spotlight

[kabsher8093]

Got a spotlight from a friend of mine. Wanted me to test it before I put it on.
Put +12vdc to the wire and nothing happened, I moved the switch in both positions. I know the bulb is good, I tested the bulb.
How does the spotlight ground itself? I tried grounding the rod that runs through the A-post, but it sparks and shorts out. Does the rod ground itself on the A-post?
I'd like to bench test this thing first.
Kevin

 

[fleetcomm]

It grounds thur the outside of the metal shaft.

 

[UnityUSA]

Spotlights are self grounding. When we bench test we clamp the shaft in a grounded metal vice.

 

[kabsher8093]

Thanks. Why didn't I think of that...

 

[UnityUSA]

With the light setup for bench testing try removing the handle. There should be a little metal tip on the end of the shaft that was in the handle. Touch power to the tip. If it lights up the problem may have to do with the handle. It normally means the handle was just not installed correctly, but could also be an issue with the switch or the toggle.