Replacing Glove Box Light

[tarheel]

Greetings:

I am attempting to replace the glove box light bulb.  I believe this is also called the "map light", correct?

My hands are quite large and I do not see how to remove the old bulb to check and see if it blown, or diagnose a wiring issue.

The fuse appears to be OK and the entry light under dash is working, which ties to same fuse.

Can someone provide some guidance on how to remove and replace this bulb?

Would be grateful.

Not sure this is a coincidence, but my clock is not working either. 

Input welcome as I'd like to tackle this project over the weeked.

Thank you!

[mrfatboy]

 Before trying to remove the bulb you could check with a multimeter if you are getting 12v to the light. Also  check for resistance between the two bulb ends.

If no voltage, problem somewhere else.

If bulb has infinite resistance, then it’s the bulb.

Disconnect battery negative.

The bulb is held in by two spring retainers. Use flathead screwdriver to gently pry one of the retainers back to release retention. Use something to pop bulb out.

To replace bulb, insert one end into one of the retainers and gently press the other end of the bulb until it snaps into place.

You can also wrap need nose pliers with tape to handle bulb if you hands are that big 🤣

[WRe]

Hi,
one main problem is the cabling to the map light, check this along the flap knee. Check the switch too.
Consider that the bulb is permanent positive.
I recommend to change the bulb with a LED because the metal back could become very hot.
...WRe

[Jonny B]

An LED is a great idea, what is an LED replacement part number? I tried to find one some years back and had no luck.

[mrfatboy]

Yes. A LED is a good idea.

I believe I replaced mine with this one.

https://www.superbrightleds.com/moreinfo/dome-light-bulb/can-bus-578-led-bulb-8-led-festoon-44mm/3418/?year=1968&make=49&model=88&scc_id=1407

[WRe]

Hi,
I replaced my interior (under dashboard) light (C5W Soffitte) with the same LED too.
...WRe

[66andBlue]

The correct incandescent bulb is a N72601 (Osram 6411) festoon bulb with a length of 41mm and a diameter of 11mm.

The closest bulb from "Superbrightleds" is this one:
https://www.superbrightleds.com/moreinfo/miniature-and-subminiature-bulbs/6451-led-bulb-6-smd-led-festoon-42mm-car/2038/
but it may only fit in flat.
Check the dimensional drawing under specifications.

If you go to a 44mm long one you need to spread the spring contacts and hope the bulb still holds.

[Jonny B]

Is this the same bulb that would also be used in the lighted automatic shifter gate?

[66andBlue]

No, it is shorter. Osram 6428, 28mm long x 8mm diameter.

[Rahul]

@66andBlue - does the LED bulb fit both the interior under-dash light, and the glovebox light?

Thanks

[66andBlue]

Yes, same bulb, Osram 6411.
https://www.authenticclassics.com/Bulb-10W-12V-Tubular-Festoon-type-p/auth-003930.htm
https://www.authenticclassics.com/Original-Interior-Lamp-Mercedes-230SL-250SL-280SL-p/auth-002649.htm

[Peter]

To replace bulb, insert one end into one of the retainers and gently press the other end of the bulb until it snaps into place.

I unscrew the "magnifying glass" so you can easily change the light, without fiddling.

^Peter

[mauro12]

Hi guys I have a different problem . I cannot put in place correctly the led bulb for the glove box light . There is no space at all to see directly the position of the bulb . How do you remove the small glass ? Is quite annoying because the only thing is to put a mirror and see the perfect alignment of the bulb in the terminals . What is your solution ?

[Peter]

Hi Mauro,

The glass can be removed by hand, turning it counterclockwise.

^Peter

[mauro12]

Is it difficult ? Just turn it and it will come out ?

[Peter]

In principle yes, the glass and the chrome ring.
The problem could be that it is very stuck after so many years.

^Peter

[Brennie]

Hi..how do you remove the courtesy(under dash) light please? Mine only works when the door opens,not when I toggle the switch…I need to look at it properly….also,those LED bulbs,can you get warm white..if so,can you chose brightness or wattage?
Thank you

[WRe]

Hi,
the underdash light is pinched, you can pull it out, just press the metal clip on one side (left egde of the photo; ignore the red arrow). First you should pull the relevant fuse to prevent a short.
...WRe