Problem with 2 way lighting in kitchen

[securespark]

Yeah, sorry RH, I wasn't suggesting replacing the other pull cord just yet, just suggesting possible reasons as to why the 2 way circuit is not working as it should.

Wire the old pull cord switch back in as suggested by TTC and see if the system switches correctly.

If it does, the problem must lie with your changes. If the problem is still apparent, there must be a break somewhere; either a faulty switch mechanism or a physical break in the conductors, at a terminal or along the conductor somewhere.

As your switches have been wired with only one three core cable at each position, there must be a junction box somewhere nearby where all the connections are made (or the connections could be made off in the ceiling rose).

Edited for clarity.

 

[RustleHobs]

I'm thinking of connecting a new switch to the remaining pull cord's wires just to see if the fault lies with that pull cord.

I think you should put the old switch back,as it was, and see if it all works. Then start again. If you change more things, it will get worse, not better.

I would take TTC's advice .

DS

Yep, good advice, no doubt. Thx all

 

[EFLImpudence]

You could always learn how it works:

//www.diynot.com/wiki/Electrics:Lighting

 

[RustleHobs]

Yeah, sorry RH, I wasn't suggesting replacing the other pull cord just yet, just suggesting possible reasons as to why the 2 way circuit is not working as it should.

Wire the old pull cord switch back in as suggested by TTC and see if the system switches correctly.

If it does, the problem must lie with your changes. If the problem is still apparent, there must be a break somewhere; either a faulty switch mechanism or a physical break in the conductors, at a terminal or along the conductor somewhere.

As your switches have been wired with only one three core cable at each position, there must be a junction box somewhere nearby where all the connections are made (or the connections could be made off in the ceiling rose).

Edited for clarity.

Thx Sp,
That's right, there's a big old-fashioned square junction box with a maze of cables connected, including the two to the switches concerned. I will try reconnecting the old switch.

 

[securespark]

Let us know your findings.

 

[RustleHobs]

Hi SP, DS, et al, here's an update:

After a busy week at work, I just tried wiring another new light switch to the remaining pull cord cable as a test. The two-way switching works perfectly, so it seems the problem was a fault with the old pull switch or some kind of incompatibility between it and the new switch at the other point, due to its old age possibly. Anyway, I am going to buy a new pull switch to use there instead of chasing out the wall for a switch, as it would emerge into the loft right at the edge of the house where it's been filled with all this powdery insulation. So if there is some inherent incompatibility between switch and pull cord, I will find out and end up having to chase the wall anyway.
Thanks for all your help and suggestions.

 

[Spark123]

There won't be any compatibility issues, they are just plain bog standard switches.
It is maybe worth checking your switches with an ohm meter to make sure they are switching properly.
You should be able to measure the circuit between common and one of the outputs, when switched between common and the other output.

 

[securespark]

Suggest a gammy switch?

May be stuffed up with the powdery insulation?