Am considering changing out my instrument cluster panel bulbs because my panel is extremely dim. I read the tech article (which is great), and was given bulb ideas from Crazy Larry (thank you). Some on this site have mentioned that the clips on the speedometer cable and wiring harness break due to age. I have a knack for something like this happening and am curious that in the event of this happening is there a way to repair? I am concerned that if these clips break things may slide around while driving. Any ideas would be great. Thank you.
broken clip is not a problem. there is a strap on the speedo cable under the car that you can loosen and push the cable towards the speedo and lock it back down...
i have an extra instrument cluster ive been playing with and adding LED bulbs instead of the regular ones. The wiring harness is really easy to disconnect from that one but my original is such a pain, just make sure both tabs comes out the same time and pull straight. also lay a rag over the steering column so you dont scuff the panel face.
first time might be a challenge but after that its cake. its pretty convenient when working on things behind the dash and having the extra space and such.
I changed my bulbs without removing the cluster. You can reach them from under the dash if you don't have A/C. You need to remove the package tray and radio to get extra room for your hand to fit
Regarding the bulbs, I did some extensive research and ... They are called T- 3.25, or T-3-1/4" Wedge Base bulbs. I found the #158 bulbs in my car. They are barely bright enough at night turned up all the way. They are also the 2nd dimmest. #161's are a joke. #168 4.9 watts Brightest possible meltdown #193 4.62 watts Next Brightest, also iffy on heat #192 4.3 Watts third brightest and reported to not melt #194 3.78 Watts, real close in watts to the 158's why bother #158 3.3 watts Stock and not bright at night #161 2.66 watts dont bother, right??? Now I also found LED replacements! http://www.superbrightleds.com/cgi-b...ini-wedge.html The brightest that would fit are the WLED-WHP9-T but they are only 35 Lumens, and the 158 bulbs I have now are 32 Lumens. The LED bulbs are Like $15.00 each... I installed the 168's and they are awesome no meltdowns after 3 years!
I went with the LED lights as well and am very pleased. Installation was easier than I expected and here are the results. Both sides turned out great but could only really capture the speedometer in picture. Would highly recommend the green LEDs.
