I have a 71 Charger SE with hidden headlights, the motor works well and when the key is on they open and close with the headlight switch as they should, but when I turn the lights off with the key still on and the headlight doors close, the relay under the dash will start clicking after a few seconds.

I think this is because whatever part of the motor senses that the headlights are closed isn't telling the relay to stop sending power so the relay will click as heat builds, or is it a bad relay?

could I be onto something and how do I fix it without blindly swapping parts?

It's been awhile since I worked on these but if I recall correctly there are marks on the motor that you line up by turning the knob and the head light doors are positioned half way open when you install the rod.I'm not sure if having the motor out of phase would cause the relay to click but doesn't hurt to check.I believe the factory service manual has some trouble shooting information also.Good luck!

well I've installed the rod all the way open and closed, no help. I took the rod out of the doors and just let it run free (not supposed to, but oh well) and it still makes the click when it thinks it's in the closed position. for being so simple, these things are tough. What is the purpose of the third wire on that motor? the one that looks like a ground? the thing works with and without it.

I borrowed a 1972 FSM and it says the noise could be caused by a defective circuit breaker at the relay or by motor limit switch malfunction.It also says if the motor is over rotated the limit switch will be damaged.The switch plate is replaceable but I doubt it's available anymore,you will probably need a good used motor.I can make copies of the service manual pages and fax them to you if you like.The third wire is a ground conection.