dim instrument lights

[wolds]

I know that there are many threads on this subject, but I thought that my observation on the subject might help others with the problem. Like others my instrument lights were dim and I was pondering how to resolve it. Over the winter I had pulled my instruments in preparation of my dash pad refurb and windshield replacement. During the process I tagged all my electrical connections on the instrument backs. I also swapped out the radio which meant that I had my hand on the main ground point under the dash (I think it is G2 or3) which is where the instruments and radio get there ground. I realized that the spade connectors were loose on the chassis tab. I corrected the issue and finished my project. My first time out of the garage was after dark and I was surprised at how much brighter my instrument lights were compared to before. So this is an FYI to those who are having this issue and are experimenting with light bulb alternatives. Clean and re-seat all of your power and ground connections first, you might be surprised at the improvement. Warren

[PCA7GGR]

Cleaning the ground/light sockets and putting new blubs does indeed help.

[Jim Richards]

Great advice, wolds.

[DRACO A5OG]

+1 if you want to stay Concours.

But a great alternative is eTarga's antique white LEDs, you can keep the dingy look but it will be clearer or go white and see your gauges in a different light, sorry for the pund. PM him and he can take care of you. :-)

[schumicat]

another alternative is the 4 watt bulbs from India. huge difference and really cheap. I did the cleaning grounds, new bulbs, etc. and it made the illumination go from "really sucks" to "sucks." the 4 watt bults make it very good.

[r-mm]

I'm new to these cars and have been thinking how dim the instruments are. Then last night I realized that besides the odometer, the dimness is not really stopping me from getting any of the information I need at a glance. I'm starting to like it. Part of the charm of the car.

I still haven't figured out how to get the key in the ignition at night though. Guess I gotta spring $50 for a lighted key blank.

[Jerome74911S]

Originally Posted by schumicat

another alternative is the 4 watt bulbs from India. huge difference and really cheap. I did the cleaning grounds, new bulbs, etc. and it made the illumination go from "really sucks" to "sucks." the 4 watt bults make it very good.

Where are the made in India bulbs available? I just pulled the instruments and the old bulbs, although they still work, are really burned black.

Anything would be brighter, and 4 watts sounds interesting. Would I blow a fuse with this mod?

[DRACO A5OG]

Originally Posted by Jerome74911S

Where are the made in India bulbs available? I just pulled the instruments and the old bulbs, although they still work, are really burned black.

Anything would be brighter, and 4 watts sounds interesting. Would I blow a fuse with this mod?

There is no fuse, you will melt the wiring, so if you do this, place a inline fues.

I tried this and it just made the yellowish brighter, I opted for White Light

Etarga WHITE LEDS


Your OEM lights on the Left/ Superbrite LEDS Center/ eTarga Antique LEDs Right

[Unobtanium-inc]

Make sure you get those instrument lights fused. Dimness could be caused by voltage leaking out of the circuit via a short. If this catches up to you in a bad way you could end up with melted wires, a fried headlight switch, and other damage. -- Matt

[schumicat]

I got them on ebay. based on my understanding of ohm's law, using a half dozen of them add less than an amp to the circuit (i think it was around 0.7 amps but i don't recall exactly). i do have a fuse on my lighting circuit and it has not blown and I doubt it will because the circuit is probably using 4-5 amps total.

Originally Posted by Jerome74911S

Where are the made in India bulbs available? I just pulled the instruments and the old bulbs, although they still work, are really burned black.

Anything would be brighter, and 4 watts sounds interesting. Would I blow a fuse with this mod?

[Gretz]

Anyone have a photo and description of the ground point (G2) under the dash? I have some issues with instruments and looking to clean it up. I've been unable to find these details on other threads. Thanks!

Originally Posted by wolds

I know that there are many threads on this subject, but I thought that my observation on the subject might help others with the problem. Like others my instrument lights were dim and I was pondering how to resolve it. Over the winter I had pulled my instruments in preparation of my dash pad refurb and windshield replacement. During the process I tagged all my electrical connections on the instrument backs. I also swapped out the radio which meant that I had my hand on the main ground point under the dash (I think it is G2 or3) which is where the instruments and radio get there ground. I realized that the spade connectors were loose on the chassis tab. I corrected the issue and finished my project. My first time out of the garage was after dark and I was surprised at how much brighter my instrument lights were compared to before. So this is an FYI to those who are having this issue and are experimenting with light bulb alternatives. Clean and re-seat all of your power and ground connections first, you might be surprised at the improvement. Warren

[RSBob]

Originally Posted by r-mm

I still haven't figured out how to get the key in the ignition at night though. Guess I gotta spring $50 for a lighted key blank.

I installed a yellow 12V LED directly above the ignition switch which is connected to the driver’s door switch. It is invisible until the door is opened and really illuminates that dark area. Bought it from Superbright LEDs. The most unnerving part was drilling a hole for the LED mount in the lip above the ignition. Crappy iPad pic, but it works great.