Dim Dash panel Lights

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Feb 20, 2002 | 04:48 AM

CollinsCD

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From: Odessa, Delaware

Dim Dash panel Lights

I have a 1979 Ford Pick-up that has very dim instrument panel lights. I replaced the headlight switch and made sure all bulbs were working behind the dash and this did not help. Has anyone else had a problem with very dim dash lights?

Thanks!

Craig

Feb 20, 2002 | 06:02 AM

jowilker

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From: Creedmoor, North Carolina

Dim Dash panel Lights

Craig, They dim with age. Try carefully removing one of them and replacing it with a new bulb, to see if it burns brighter.
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Feb 20, 2002 | 07:07 AM

karljay

Cargo Master

Joined: Jul 2000

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From: Northern California

Dim Dash panel Lights

And while your at it, get the new halogen bulbs. I got them for mine and they work great. Cost about 3x as much but they really work. I'd also clean the contacts up with a wire brush too.

You should be able to pull the main connector from the back and clean it as well. Some contact cleaner from radio shack should work.

Feb 20, 2002 | 08:17 AM

KJKozak2

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Joined: Feb 2002

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From: Cleveland, WI USA

Dim Dash panel Lights

Yes, I have that problem too in my 78 F150. I can barely tell if the dash lights are on. I just figured I was used to my new truck and it's bright dash, and these just "seemed" dim. Great tips though! Never knew you could get Hallogen dash lights. I know where I'm going for lunch...

Kevin K.

Feb 20, 2002 | 08:36 AM

73Custom

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Joined: Apr 2000

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From: SD

Dim Dash panel Lights

[font color=red size=3]This was discussed recently, check it out - yours is probably the same problem.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/dcforum/61_79/8797.html

Marty

Feb 20, 2002 | 11:34 AM

breathinhappily

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Joined: May 2001

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Dim Dash panel Lights

I would avoid the halogen lights in the dash... I tried them and after about 5 months my dash lights started to act up... When i checked the halogens had started to melt the little plastic light holders...causing it to lose contact with the . I liked the bright light but not the melting...halogens get very hot... Best bet is just to remove the blue caps over the lights and put in new normal bulbs...