Dim instrument cluster - '73 Maverick

My speedo and gas guages are much dimmer than the gear selector. Anybody else have this experience who can offer advise?

 

switch to 2825 bulbs. they are brighter than the old 194's

 

when i did the 2825 bulb swap i also painted the inside of the cluster with " chrome paint " ...frank...

 

So what you guys are saying is that the clusters were never too bright, even when they left the factory?? If that is the case I will stop worrying about a wiring/current problem. I will also give the new type bulbs a try. Thanks!

 

b.j., i think the 194s are 3 watts and the 2825s are 5 watts. with the old wiring the 3s were a little dim. if you do the paint take the clear front and polish it with some " close up " tooth paste (inside and out). ...frank...

 

Any particular flavor, Frank?

 

m. mav. sorry, it is the " red gel ". i take a wet rag and lay the lens on it and put the gel on a wet terrycloth rag. keep the rag damp.
i had one that was frosted . i took some 2000 grit sandpaper and wet sanded it . then polished it out. remember, you are bonding with your car so take your time ...frank...

 

Thanks for the information guys, this is very helpful. That toothpaste is a great trick to remember... I don't think I will have to be "brushing" this lens though, it is in darn good shape as it is! A little floss maybe...

 

...frank...

 

I buffed my plastic lens using a polishing wheel and a white polishing brick ... the type for stainless steel .... work perfect and removed all scratches ...

 

I finished up mine with some car wax.

 

light bulb

can you upgrade to these bulbs without messing with the fuse box n stuff?

 

m-trick 71,

no messin' wit' notin'. just swap the 194s with the 2825s. this is one of the simpler upgrades.
i also put them in my side marker lites.
put the 2057s and 2056s in your brake, back up and turn lights ..frank...:bananaman :bananaman