Taillamp socket question
 

The Left tail/brake(1156 dual filament) lamp is loose when in it's socket, so a poor connection causes flickering on/off of the taillight. Is there a quick fix for this problem? Do i need to replace the lamp socket or worse the whole tail light assembly?

Searched archives with no luck

Thanks
Mike
'86 coupe

Mike, if you pull the bulb out you will see two brass prongs that have probably been bent down too far making the bulb loose. Just get a tiny screwdrive and try and bend the prongs up about 1/8". That should solve your problem.

not an expert, but I believe a US bulb will not properly fit a Porsche socket..as such I have never tested a US bulb in my 911........Ron

The stop/tail lamp bulb specified in the spec book is a #1034! I don't remember the differences from a #1156 ... but I think I would try the correct bulb!

1156 is a single filament bulb with a S.C. Bayonet base.

1157 is a dual filament bulb with a D.C. Index base.

1034 is a dual filament just like the 1157, but has a lower watt rating at 12.80 volts and the same rating at 14.00 volts.

1156 and 1157 are not interchangable.
So look at the socket if it has two contacts your bulb should have two etc.
Chris

Kurt-thanks, i'll try the "prong bending maneuver"

Early/Porcupine--you guys are keeping me honest. You're right: not 1156, but 1157 in there now. If it fits correctly, then by the info Porcupine has provided, the 1157 will be BRIGHTER than the 1034?? I'm all for brighter lights!!

Anyone else with suggestions on loose fitting bulb in socket??

Thanks all
Mike

MIK..I would investigate my point in previous reply.....Ron

I have the tailights on my 66 apart and pulled the socket and it looks easy enough to bend up/down the tabs that contact the lights base.

I used this procedure more than once on my 1968 912.

Of course your 86 may have a way different socket style.

It could be a loose filament in the bulb or a loose wire or fuse. Or even a bad contact in your lite switch.

By the way , does anyone know a source for just these sockets ?

I have actually had go arounds with other Porsche parts suppliers- Not Pelican- trying to get these sockets. They parts places would argue with me that the light assembly is right there in their catalog. I told them "No that is the complete taillight assembly, I just need the sockets which are replaceable." I didn't get anywhere with them and finally got some real good used ones from a fellow Porsche owner. This is a few years back on my 68 912 so maybe they are now more readily available.

DOn