Instrument cluster lighting

[bigblue87]

as if the dash lights weren't dim enough to start, im having a problem with bulbs staying lit... the bulbs are good but you have to wiggle them to get them lit and they wont stay lit. Any one run across this problem? im wondering if its the bulbs im using or maybe the socket needs to be replaced(and where i can get them) or is something going on with the printed circuit?

my other question is do you have to remove all the gauges to pull that out or just unhook the speedo cable?

[old Rusty C10]

you just have to pull out the speedo and the electrical connection to disconnect.. its hard to say whats happening with yours without pics its prolly a worn contact tho on the circut board that causes you to have to put them half way in and they come loose

[BIG DADDYS 84]

Very common problems with these. Take sockets out and lift tabs a little on sockets were they go aginst printed circut. Also pick inside sockets were bulb wires meet it. This should tighten it all up. Also if you want to brighten lights. Pull out cluster and dissasemble,easy. Then use chrome paint .paint inside housing and back of cover,thread on here ,works great and cheaper than led bulbs.

[bigblue87]

yeah, i was looking at those threads and already painted the cover but i figured my first step would be to fix this problem first.

[motornut]

sometimes the contact under the bulb(make sure the wires go under straight
sometimes the socket contacts are loose(bend the tab up a but,run fine sandpaper over the bump,and later the board paths
then if it's not out sometimes the path on the board gets bent(replacing bulb)
i use crazy glue to make them right
and then theres corrosion maybe

[bigblue87]

Well I messed with the contacts on the sockets and cleaned everything up and paintedit. It works well now thanks for all the information.
Still isn't that bright so I might end up doing the leds
Posted via Mobile Device

[motornut]

i did both sides it sure made a difference for me