Re: '51 300 Instrument Cluster Lights
Posted by Dave Merrick On 2010/11/14 17:36:25
Yeah, I've bypassed the dimmer and they're just as bright.
I think I'm going to line the inside of the cluster with that reflective tape HVAC guys use. I think it's mylar. Should make it more mirror-like, hence more light.
I went to the hardware store and bought a black-light bulb.
I've confirmed that's not the issue.
I really think it's the black paint on the inside-front of the cluster that is absorbing all the light before it gets to the glass.
And I still have no idea what the metal boxes around the bulbs purpose is. Perhaps to make the light more even? Or so the bulbs don't glare in the instrument lenses? Perhaps they were once reflective inside. Today they are just metal shades that block all the light.
I have attached a photo of the "Baffle"
Top-down rear view from where I removed the Speedometer.
Attach file:
(166.32 KB)
I think I'm going to line the inside of the cluster with that reflective tape HVAC guys use. I think it's mylar. Should make it more mirror-like, hence more light.
I went to the hardware store and bought a black-light bulb.
I've confirmed that's not the issue.
I really think it's the black paint on the inside-front of the cluster that is absorbing all the light before it gets to the glass.
And I still have no idea what the metal boxes around the bulbs purpose is. Perhaps to make the light more even? Or so the bulbs don't glare in the instrument lenses? Perhaps they were once reflective inside. Today they are just metal shades that block all the light.
I have attached a photo of the "Baffle"
Top-down rear view from where I removed the Speedometer.
Attach file:
(166.32 KB)
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