Thats just not the way its supposed to be is it. Now go the other switch location.

3 Way Switching Coast Wiring Diagram Best Of For Switches
3 way switch wiring not working. Set the electrical tester to the continuity or ohms setting. For the second 3 way box which two of the three wires attached to the original switch come from the other 3 way. Disconnect switch and connect all 3 wires together with a wire nut. 3 way circuits can be a formidable opponent. Remove the two 3 way switches so you can access the switch terminalsthe wire connections do not have to be removed. What is the wiring pattern of your 3 way switches.
So to turn the light on she carefully negotiates the stairs to the top and flips on the switch. Switch b disconnect all the wires and connect two wires together. Using a continuity tester check continuity between the common black terminal and each of the traveler terminals brass colored of each 3 way switch. Turn power off label the switches a b. You generally need two people working together answer these questions. The dang 3 way switch isnt working.
The upstairs is dark and as she flips the switch at the bottom of the stairs she howls. One with the meter on resistance one tapping pairs of wires together. Touch the probes to the 3 wires removed from the switch until you get a reading on the tester indicating continuity. Test a 3 way switchturn off power to the switches at the circuit breaker and using a tester make sure power is off. Turn the power on. At the switch where you found power in step 2 put the other 2 wires you removed from the switch together and wire nut them.
To id the wires o a 3 way switch all you need are some wire nuts. First kill the circuit breaker and be.