Had an accident while wiring up some guages a while back and I think I fried the dash guage lights. I had a wire wired up wrong and it started smoking, and ever since then all the guage lights in the dash won't light up and all the fuses and fine. What gives??

 

This link might help.

http://www.geocities.com/modularmot...dgen/dashlights

 

Dimmer switch

 

does the dimmer also effect the radio?

 

Yes, if stock or has a dimmer input. Also affects heater control illumination.

 

If this is on a firebird it is most likely the remote dimmer switch that has been barbequed.

 

But we can't tell, since the signature and profile only list a Mustang, a scooter, and "junk" as possibilities. And he's not telling...

The only other possibility or hint is the username. Presuming it IS a Formula (Pontiac), there would be an instrument panel illumination module just above the Convenience Center under the dash. The TO92 transistor is probably suffering an E-B open due to a wiring "accident" as described.

Remove the lower bolster and trim, swing down the convenience center, and dive under the dash with a good lamp. Follow the brown wire from the light dimmer **** on the dash until it leads you to this:



Remove the module, test the transistor, and go shopping for a replacement once you discover it is open. Just about any audio power output PNP in a TO-92 case should work, so long as the CC is at least 5-6A rated. You don't want a Darlington in this module.

 

well sounds like my dimmer id fried, now to find a new/working one damnit

 

ok...check this then. i'm having the same problem with my 91 RS. everything works fine except there's no dash lights. and it's not the fuse. i already replaced the dimmer switch, and still nothing. only other thing is that my speedo comes and goes as it pleases. any suggestions?

 

i know what you're saying.
you know what you're saying.

but i doubt the far majority of people reading this will be replacing individual transistors....

 

...And that's why parts houses still exist. And machine shops, and appliance repair, garages, home remodelers, computer repair, transmission shops, etcetera.

 

yeaa.. re-reading it, i really didnt need to say that out loud. your advice was helpful for anyone wanting to actually fix it...

 

If everything else checks out, try checking the grey wire that runs from the fuse panel to the instrument cluster. This is the wire that supplies power to the instrument lights.

 

You guys have any advice on JUST the HVAC light going out?

It's driving me nuts... I do alot of night driving, and I get hot easy, so I'm always fiddling with my defroster.

I hate not seeing it unless I switch on the mirror light.

Is the bulb back there a standard bulb thats easy to get to?

 

The bulb is a standard #194LL, to replace it you have to remove the face plate around it and the radio. Then remove the bolts holding the A/C control head to the bracket and slide the unit out. Remove the light socket and replace the bulb and install everything in reverse order.