SC license plate lights not working

[hytem]

The two small lights on either side of the license plate in the rear of my 82 SC have suddenly stopped working.
It's probably not the bulbs, since both are out(?) What's the most likely cause? The lamp covers come off with a couple of screws to replace the bulbs. Haven't done anything yet, since I don't drive it much at night. The rest of the lighting works fine.

[Formerly Steve Wilkinson]

Current not reaching the lamp units. I would assume, without getting out the wiring diagram, that there's a single feed to the license-plate lights that then branches to both. Since both have failed simultaneously, you've either lost a ground, had a wire lose continuity or blown a fuse. (Latter would be indicated by whatever else is on the same fuse having failed.)

[hytem]

Originally posted by Formerly Steve Wilkinson
Current not reaching the lamp units. I would assume, without getting out the wiring diagram, that there's a single feed to the license-plate lights that then branches to both. Since both have failed simultaneously, you've either lost a ground, had a wire lose continuity or blown a fuse. (Latter would be indicated by whatever else is on the same fuse having failed.)

Thanks, Steve. Don't think it's a blown fuse--everything else is OK.

Could be a ground wire loose. I haven't really troubleshooted it yet. Hopefully don't have to remove the bumper.

[rouxroux]

Those housings get VERY brittle with age. When I removed the bumper pads on one of my 86's, they shattered and became dust with one tap.

[hytem]

Originally posted by Formerly Steve Wilkinson
Current not reaching the lamp units. I would assume, without getting out the wiring diagram, that there's a single feed to the license-plate lights that then branches to both. Since both have failed simultaneously, you've either lost a ground, had a wire lose continuity or blown a fuse. (Latter would be indicated by whatever else is on the same fuse having failed.)

Just bought your book on Amazon.

[Formerly Steve Wilkinson]

Hey! I just make a buck fifty. Or maybe it's fifteen cents.

[nesslar]

If your SC is wired like my '86, then you'll find that the left light is fed from the right light. Probably your connection at the right side is corroded/loose, therefore neither has 'tricity.

[emac]

Hytem
I had the same issue last year. The power was found behind the left (drivers) tail light. Very easy to remove but place something on the bumper as it is real close and the chances of scratching are great. I found a broken wire as well as a loose ground.