Re: 39 120 dash instrument lighting

Posted by Packard Newbie On 2019/11/23 22:47:45

Hey Saffron,

I weigh in here as I too am 'under the dash' in my '39 Six and trying to effect some upgrades and repairs. I did remove my Speedometer and sent it out for servicing and unless you're familiar with the internal workings of speedometers, and that one in particular - would recommend you consider doing the same while you have things apart. (some follow-up posts on this forthcoming) I did find tinned wire in behind there, so I think Dave (Owen_Dyneto) is accurate surmising that is what you came across and mistook for aluminum. Not sure what you're referring to, re 'radioactive numbers'?? Maybe 'glow in the dark', like phosphorescent paint?? Radioactivity is a whole different 'kettle of crawdads' and I don't think you'll find any in your Packard. If these numbers ever were luminescent, my guess is that quality would have long since worn off. I was able to extract my dash light dimmer switch and get it cleaned up and functioning and was surprised how bright it brought up the test bulb I had it hooked it up to. It had been bypassed by a previous owner and I now must trace down the respective dash light wires and reconnect them to the dimmer switch. I suspect this will improve my dash back-lighting considerably. Not sure if yours is there, hooked up, and/or working properly, but would suggest checking that out. Good luck. Chris.