'51 Shoebox Instrument Cluster

[5851a]

The black light diffuser was used to work with radium numbers and markings on the gauges, as they get older the radium doesn't glow so much. When they were newer, they were the coolest dash. Shut the lights off and the dash would continue to glow for a while.

[Dan in MI]

Attached is a picture of the diffusers I removed from my 49 IP. I disassembled the cluster to get at them. To remove you need to straighten the 2 tabs on the chrome ring that holds it in place. The tabs are on the backside next to the light socket, see attached picture. after the ring is off the diffuser will probably be stuck due to the cork gasket. I used a piece of wooden dowel from the backside and tapped them until they came off.

I am still using 6 volts and replaced the bulbs with LED ones. It is bright now. One thing to consider is the glare on the windshield from the bulbs at night. This is a common complaint, maybe using the dimmest bulb that still illuminates the gauges would be best.

[highbeams]

I use a 'bulb that illuminates in color in my '68 Mustang - possibly there are 6v available. You'll never 'go back' to boring illumination. FYI - thank you.

[Shoebox]

Originally Posted by highbeams

I use a 'bulb that illuminates in color in my '68 Mustang - possibly there are 6v available. You'll never 'go back' to boring illumination. FYI - thank you.

I have converted to 12 volt, but I agree I am looking for "improved" lighting, however that comes about. Thanks.

[paul2748]

I used LED bulbs for the dash in my 54 (12V). Tremendous difference.

[drolston]

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

Originally Posted by paul2748

I used LED bulbs for the dash in my 54 (12V). Tremendous difference.

Do the LED bulbs fit the existing bulb sockets? If so, I might try some in my '41, which with red needles against gold instrument faces are hard to read, even in daylight. I actually carry little LED flashlight at my side when driving. I believe Ford switched to white needles later in the '41 model year.