1997 CVPI Question

d119 · Post by **d119** » Sun Nov 05, 2006 9:30 pm

Sorry for the off-topic post.

Anyone familiar with replacing the dashboard backlights on a 1997 Crown Victoria Police Interceptor?

I just bought one, and some of the dash instrument lighting is out. Most of it works, but I'd like to replace the burned out lamps.

Anyone famliar with the how-to and whats needed?

Thanks!

DaBigBR · Post by **DaBigBR** » Sun Nov 05, 2006 10:22 pm

You would probably be looking at removing the instrument cluster bezel and the cluster itself to get to it.

You basically need to remove the dash trim piece that the clock/trunk release (depending on car) is on, it should pop right off. Next, remove the screws that are holding the black plastic bezel on. You may need to remove the screws that go "up" in to the instrument cluster sun-shade, but I can't remember for sure.

Just take your time, and keep track of your hardware, and you'll be fine.

I also recommend http://www.crownvic.net for CVPI related questions...not that BatLabs Batboard isn't good, but the guys on CVN really know their stuff.

d119 · Post by **d119** » Mon Nov 06, 2006 2:27 pm

Thanks for the heads up. I'll just go slowly and see if I can get into it without breaking anything.

I hope I dont have to disconnect the speedo, I don't wanna mess with my "certified calibration" LOL

spectragod · Post by **spectragod** » Mon Nov 06, 2006 4:34 pm

d119 wrote:Thanks for the heads up. I'll just go slowly and see if I can get into it without breaking anything.

I hope I dont have to disconnect the speedo, I don't wanna mess with my "certified calibration" LOL

No cable, it's electric, just unplug and go. it should use 194's for the bulbs.

SG

d119 · Post by **d119** » Mon Nov 06, 2006 6:21 pm

spectragod wrote:
d119 wrote:Thanks for the heads up. I'll just go slowly and see if I can get into it without breaking anything.

I hope I dont have to disconnect the speedo, I don't wanna mess with my "certified calibration" LOL
No cable, it's electric, just unplug and go. it should use 194's for the bulbs.

SG

Thanks for the heads up SG, that's good news. Have you any idea how to get the dash apart?

Adam · Post by **Adam** » Mon Nov 06, 2006 7:02 pm

There's not much more to be said about how to get the dash apart.

Once you actually get some tools and pull the dash trim pieces out and remove the screws.. it's pretty self explanatory from there.

The only complication you might have is once pulling the instrument cluster out you'll have the gear shift selector cable to maneuver out.

Many suggest replacing all the bulbs with new since you've gone through all the trouble.

I ignored that and literally, after I replaced some bulbs another went out within about 2-3 days of having replaced things.

d119 · Post by **d119** » Mon Nov 06, 2006 9:25 pm

Got it. Thanks guys!