Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

Hello All -

I recently purchased an 86 Firebird S/E.

The overhead console included the flashlight, which was a pleasant surprise, but both the dome and map light bulbs are missing. I went to the local auto parts store and the bulb that the store sent me home with wouldn't fit.

Can some one tell me what the right sizes are?

Thanks in advance,

-Mark

Re: Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

Update:

It looks like the answer is 194 for the map light, and size 561 for the dome light.

However, I bought 561 last night and it doesn't fit. I'm wondering if there is a part I'm missing.

I must be an idiot, because I can't see how this bulb is supposed to fit into the dome light bulb connectors that I have on my overhead console. I'll take some pics and upload them when I get home tonight to show you all what I mean.

The connectors look like they are designed to hold a cylindrical shaped bulb (c clips that run horizontally) and the one that every site online is recommending is a cylinder that has two loops coming out of either end that looks like it was was designed to be held by straight clips running vertically.

Can anyone out there with an overhead console do me a huge favor and take a pic of their dome light with the bulb in and out so I can either see how the bulb is supposed to fit, or so that I could at least confirm that I have some aftermarket wiring?

Thanks in advance,

-Mark

Re: Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

I believe the bulb in the dome is the same style as the one used in the luggage compartment.It should have a small metal wire/clip on each end.I think the bulb "clips to the tabs(from the outside) of the dome light.It does not wedge inbetween the dome lights metal tabs.Personally though, i would'nt use this or any bulb there.The heat will eventually distort the palstic where the tabs snap in & the tabs will break off.I stuck a 35 LED circuit board there.Bright as hell & no heat distortion.Also festoon(561 type) style LEDs are not bright enough!

Re: Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

Thanks for your reply. The bulb you're describing is what I have, but the holder doesn't look like it is for this size bulb.

I'm finally attaching some pics shed some light on this...

Sorry about the poor quality; these were taken with the camera on my cell phone.

Re: Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

One of the tabs on the dome unit seems to be missing/broken.This may be why you are having a problem attaching that bulb.There is also another similar bulb that is tubular with metal caps on each end & the same metal clips as the one pictured, but it will do little for you if that one tab is indeed broken off.

Re: Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

The map light bulb number is 906. There is an L.E.D. version which I have yet to purchase but will. :nod:

Re: Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

Are there any direct replacement LED bulbs? I want something brighter then what I have. I say direct replacement because I remember reading that some LED require extra resistors soldered into the wiring before the light is used.

Help appreciated,
Mike

Re: Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

Sounds interesting. More info?

JamesC

Re: Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

Scroll down to the 36 LED unit, 1156 type,white or whatever color you like.You can also find these on ebay.
http://www.superbrightleds.com/cgi-b...?product=OTHER
http://www.superbrightleds.com/specs/pcblamp.htm

Re: Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

Thanks. Wiring and attachment?

JamesC

Re: Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

Simple: Pos & Neg.I just spliced the end of the leads & wrapped them around the two prongs on the OH's dome light.The CB fits snug between the two prongs.

Re: Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

Cool. Many thanks.

JamesC

Re: Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

L.E.D. is the way to go. Hey, maybe these lights wont crack the overhead consoles.

Re: Overhead Console Bulb Sizes
 

LEDs produce next to zero heat.So there is no distortion of plastic from heat like bulbs do.Also the dome lense wont crack or turn yellow!