Dash lights problem

[franjo_66]

Hi folks,

My interior dash light dimmer works fine, but whenever I adjust the light brightness to full, I keep blowing the fuse ? Has anybody experienced a similar problem ? Any insight or information is much appreciated.

Rgds
Franjo
1966 230SL, Black, auto

[ja17]

Hello franjo 66,

Sounds like the coil on the rheostat is out of position or damaged.

Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio

[jeffc280sl]

Here is a pic of the coil Joe is speaking about.  You need to remove the tach and center cluster gauge and then take the dimmer control off to perform any maintenance.

Download Attachment: Dimmer.JPG
51.73 KB

Jeff C.
1970 280SL 4-speed

[ja17]

Good Pic Jeff!   Sometimes the cement that holds the coil in place lets go and the coil moves out of its bed. I have been able to fix these by setting them back with epoxy.

Use electrical contact cleaner and lube to clean the tarnish and corrosion off the coil.

Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio

[franjo_66]

Hi Jeff & Joe

Thanks for the pic & feedback. Will give it a try & see what happens !

Thanks & rgds
Frank

[graphic66]

I also put silicone dielectric compound on the contact and spring. It rarely gets moved and this helps to keep electrolysis from corroding the spring. Also every now and then move it to keep it clean. I have glued the cracked ceramic with permatex high temp red silicone gasket material with great success.

[Bob G ✝︎]

There is a seller on Ebay who has the resostates for sale. I called him and asked if he checked to make sure they work. I have not got a reply back which must mean approach at your own risk!!

Bob Geco