I read up on taking the instrument cluster out, which I have already done. I also read that I can replace my 1.2 watt lamps with 5.0 watt lamps. Two questions: (1). Is there a trick to taking the lamps out of the sockets, or are mine really that stuck?
(2). Where can I buy the 5.0 watt lamps? Thanks!

 

Strange creature. I've never seen one like this before. It doesn't look like it gets soldered, just hooked to the base somehow.

 

Are you trying to replace the 5 cluster bulbs or the lights in the symbol strip? Superbright sells both types. I converted all of mine to LEDs. I own a 93 XJS coupe. I did all this with guidance from a fellow forum member from Idaho who owns a 93 XJS convertible. We can assist if you want..

 

93xjs6cyl,

The subject of replacing warning bulbs with LEDs is much discussed with huge variations in price, quality and fit. Have a look at the thread:

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...lights-124049/

Good luck

Paul

 

I went to town and found some T1 12v. 1.2-1.4 watt wedge lamps. As you probably already know are not anything to get excited about because they are stock wattage. I did find one lamp on line that was rated at (if I remember right) 2.4 watts and were about the same price as the "Superbrights". I took a look at my lamps and only one was burned out (probably the "YOUR CAR IS ON FIRE!! lamp). My lamps were dusty as well as the instrument panel, so after cleaning it all up, I want to hook it up and see how much of a change it made (most likely minimal). I'm going to order some "Superbrights", but I'm not sure if mine are the T1 or the T1.5 lamps. Also, it looks like some of you are not just buying the cool white lamps, but your buying red for red. green for green, ect.. I would think that a clear light behind a colored plastic would be brighter (??). I'm curious how that worked out for you? I figured if I can hardly see my warning lights with the top up, I will never be able to see them with the top down in here in Arizona with my sunglasses on. All help is appreciated and I Thank you in advance.

 

For now, I'm just replacing the strip of warning lamps. I have already ordered them from "Superbrights". I'll let you know how they turn out. Thanks!

 

I have never worked with these little lamps before, but they are really pretty cool. I took them apart and replace the bulbs with the "Superbright" lamps, so all I need to do is install the cluster. What I want to do is tap each lamp with a 12v source before I install it to make sure they all work.

 

The problem with taking the bulbs apart and putting them in the original bulb holder is that you are STILL using the same bulb contacts from superbright. Hence swapping the holders do not do much. The problem is that the superbright bulbs do not make contacts with the circuit boards in some xjs regardless of which holder you use. I wish you luck.
Jomo

 

Well, I got a battery and tested out all the new bulbs and the cluster is all set to go back in the car. Actually, I saw no reason to buy new lamp bases. Mine were all like new and it all went together quite well. Man, those "Superbright lights ARE bright! The strange thing that I noticed was that they would act like the polarity mattered (??). Some would not light up until I turned the polarity around (strange). I bought two extra lamps and I am glad I did, because two came unglued right out of the package. A trick I leaned was after taking the lamp out and the base apart, it was best to snap one side back in place then put the lamp in setting the wires where you want them then snap the other side in with the bulb in place. Made it a lot easier.

 

93xjs6cyl,

Glad you got it sorted. LEDs are polarity sensitive. If you read all of the thread mentioned, you'll see the problems that others have had and the issue with the transistor-supported circuits.

Paul

 

ptjs1,
So, if the led's are polarity sensitive, how do I test them to make sure I have put them in right before I install the speedo cluster? Would running 12v from one end of the strip to the other work? I think I will get my battery and try it. Thanks!

 

93xjs6cyl,
In the link that Paul gave you there is a list showing whether the the positive side of the bulb goes up or down for each bulb in the cluster. Let us know how you made out.
Jomo

 

I just put the cluster in the car and the first thing I noticed was how bright they are now. Like I said, Here in Arizona with the top down and my sunglasses on I would have never been able to see my warning lights. The only problem I ran into is the "SPORT" light stays on all the time. When I push the "SPORT" button on, it gets brighter. I don't believe I should be getting any power to the light unless "SPORT" is turned on. Anyway, no big deal. I am very happy with the mod..

 

93xjs6cyl,
You really should read the post given by Paul as it talks about everything you should know about this topic. Here is the link again--Easy Solve found for dim Warning/Indicator Lights!
Jomo

 

I don't know why, but I didn't realize that there was more to that thread than just the link. I'm glad you had me read it. A lot of information. Seems that we are trying to compare some apples and oranges with the different systems. Mine seems to be the same as GSHastings. The same car and year and the same issue of only the "SPORTS" light staying on. I did notice that my turn signal lamps were not functioning, but as stated, that may well be just a matter of turning my lamps around for the correct polarity. I also noticed that some were just sliding the new "Superbrights" into the base and they were done. On mine I had to solder the lamps in place just like the original lamps. Another issue (domino principle) that became apparent quite quickly was the fact that the switches have not been used in some time and many of which started sticking. It took me some time and effort to get my hazard lights to stop flashing.