73 instrument/dash lights

[Don Mason]

Hey Guys I need some expertise on two issues. I currently have most the dash out of my 73 L-82 while my radio and clock are being repaired. While I am in there I am wondering about two other issues. My dash lights seem really dim. You cannot tell that they are on unless it is completely dark. I am wondering if there will be enough difference in illumination if I replace all of the bulbs and or the light switch. The dimmer works smoothly and there are no "flashes" or "dead spots" when I dim or brighten the lights. Can I get any more illumination or am I just spoiled by the modern instrumentation in todays cars.??

 

[Don Mason]

Hey Guys I need some expertise on two issues. I currently have most the dash out of my 73 L-82 while my radio and clock are being repaired. While I am in there I am wondering about two other issues. My dash lights seem really dim. You cannot tell that they are on unless it is completely dark. I am wondering if there will be enough difference in illumination if I replace all of the bulbs and or the light switch. The dimmer works smoothly and there are no "flashes" or "dead spots" when I dim or brighten the lights. Can I get any more illumination or am I just spoiled by the modern instrumentation in todays cars.??
The other issue involves the speedometer and tachometer cables. I would like to lubricate these cables while I am in the area. Everything I have read says to disconnect from the back of the instruments and pull the cable out of the housing from the top side. Can this be done from under the hood at the distributor and under the car at the transmission just as easily. the tach currently works very smoothly. On cold days the speedometer "rattles" and "jumps" a little in the 30 mph range. Your thoughts will be greatly appreciated.

 

[Chas]

Its apart and lights are cheap....it would be worth it just to know when your done they are new and wont need to be replaced anytime soon.

Chas

(Wow you joined in 2005 and have 14 posts...throw in some photos of your vettes and Welcome to the CAC!)

 

[duke94]

New bulbs might help a little, but mostly the dash lights suck and just barely illuminate the gages. I have heard of some replacing the bulbs with LED's but I don't know where to get them.

 

[LVMYVT76]

I have replaced the bulbs with no difference seen, just replaced the light switch but haven't put everything back together yet.

 

[duke94]

Found this place that sells LED replacements. Worth a further look.

http://www.superbrightleds.com/mini-wedge.html

 

[6880 Mike]

...The other issue involves the speedometer and tachometer cables. I would like to lubricate these cables while I am in the area... Can this be done from under the hood...

Yes.

 

[duke94]

Yes.

Not sure about the tach cable, but the speedo cable needs to come out from the dash end. Nothing's easy on an old Vette!

 

[hdkeno]

I recently replaced the stock god awful government mandated 85mph speedo on my 81,with a 140 mph unit from John at Redline gauge.

My dash lights too,were somewhat dim. (I guess that is the nature of the C3)

They were all working.but I replaced them anyway with new bulbs (194)

Later,Ken:cool

 

[JohnZ]

Both flex shafts (speedo and tach) can only be removed from the cluster end; the cables both have retaining rings crimped on them that prevent them from being removed from the bottom end of the housings.