Instrument Panel Illumination

[Marlin F.]

Just how many bulbs illuminate the gauges of my 66 ragtop? The tach and speedo are sufficiently illuminated, as is my temperature gauge, but the fuel gauge is only marginal and the alternator and oil pressure gauges are incredibly dim. Also, is the ignition switch supposed to be illuminated from behind?

Thanks all...

[Michael G.]

Re: Instrument Panel Illumination

Marlin,

Gauge clusters were the same coupe to convertible. Since there is illumination to the fuel, alternator and oil pressure gauges there is a possibly the fixture may not be fully seated to back of cluster or bulbs may need replacing.

The keyed switch does have light.....bulb may be burned out.

[Joel T.]

Re: Instrument Panel Illumination

Marlin;

The light behind the ignition switch is very difficult to see essentially because it shines through the switch and through key hole. On my '65, I filed the ignition switch opening a bit so the light could be seen better.

Joel

[Stuart F.]

Re: Instrument Panel Illumination

Seems to be a number of "night riders" out there. I do a lot of night rides, but never have been in a situation where I couldn't find my ignition switch. I don't even know now if I have a light in mine. Have to check.

I've never been too impressed with the lighting of the gauges in my 63 panel, even after I changed all the bulbs back in the 70's. I think the spun cones in the middle of each gauge adds to the light disbursement, but to me they tend to make them hard to read - sort of blurry or out of focus. Maybe it's just me.

Stu Fox

[Wayne M.]

Re: Instrument Panel Illumination

Sometimes all the instrument cluster lights are working (I count 9 grey wires, incl. ign. sw.) but if the elements have aged and a silver deposit is coating the inside of the bulb, the light output is considerably reduced. There are 3 more grey wires; 2 for the clock and one for the radio dial.