28 Dash light intermittent operation

[Cliff Ramsdell]

Hi all,
Picked up a really nice plated dash for my car. Has the original oval speedometer and dash lamp. My problem is the lamp won’t stay on. It will come on when I turn it some but it’s off when either in or out.

What’s the best way to take the lamp apart to clean and service it since I’m sure after 90 plus years it could use some service.

Hook me up guys.

Thanks,
Cliff Ramsdell

 

[Gary WA]

it turns to on/off, not in or out.to the right on, left off

 

[Cliff Ramsdell]

I guess my reference was to the lamp socket. It appears that the socket, when twisted, moves in and out making contact.

Has anyone taken one of these lamp switches apart?

Cliff Ramsdell

 

[1930 coupe]

If the springs are rusty it will be difficult to operate.
I soak them in evaporust for several days to remove the rust, I then put some light oil in them to make them turn smooth. There is a small spring under the contact that hold the contact against the bulb, if this spring is broken you will need to replace it. The contact must move in and out freely with spring tension. I then replace the wire if necessary.

 

[abachman3]

The outer housing should be pressed in slightly and turned to the right and have a noticeable stopping point where it sort of clicks into an open position and the bulb will stay lighted. The bulb does create a lot of heat and the outer case becomes quite hot, making it difficult to turn off.... perhaps why it is not meant to be on all the time, just intermittent. press it in somewhat and look at the speed and/or gas gauge and let it return to the off position.

 

[Sunnybrook Farm]

It isn't very complicated, just old. Do you know if it has the correct bulb in it? If it is getting too hot, a smaller bulb strength could be used, it depends on if you use 6v or 12v. It also depends on if it is a reproduction from the 70s or an original. I would try and lube it some like was mentioned and just get it working smoothly.

 

[Cliff Ramsdell]

Thanks for all the tips. I cleaned the lamp assembly in the parts washer and then some carb cleaner. Some spray white grease and she works great.

Thanks,
Cliff Ramsdell

 

[Cliff Ramsdell]