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single switch light control fixture will not ground

06:20AM | 05/11/08

Member Since: 05/10/08
5 lifetime posts

single switch light control fixture will not ground

I replace my old fixture will a new one, because it wasn't working. the metal box does have this metal cable coming from the back. I notice when I connects the wires(white to white and black to black) nothing happens. but if I connects the white wire to a screw or something metal the light comes on. Indicating a bad ground. how can I correct this problem?

LarryG

06:55AM | 05/11/08

Member Since: 07/22/04
491 lifetime posts

you have an open neutral.

Tom O

11:18AM | 05/11/08

Member Since: 09/17/02
487 lifetime posts

Definitely an open neutral.

Judging from your post, you should call an electrician to troubleshoot this problem.

Whatever you do, do not operate the light fixture by connecting the white wire to the metal box.

kelvingriffith

03:35AM | 05/19/08

Member Since: 05/10/08
5 lifetime posts

the problem was a open neutral is the switch box located in my upstair lighting. This is an old house built in the 1930's