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Has anyone found a good replacement for these sockets? The metal springs continually fall out allowing the bulbs to fall into the tach etc. Thinking of just replacing all the sockets but so far only found new versions of the same design which I assume will exhibit the same issue over time. Anyone found a more permanent solution, or at least one that allows for the instrument cluster to be reinstalled with one try (I'm on my third attempt to reinstall the cluster and each time a bulb has fallen in and had to remove the whole thing to fish it out)?
The replacement socket is a Dorman 85805, cheapest price I found was at Autozone. I used a couple as replacements when I changed bulbs in my '69.
Here.........https://www.autozone.com/power-tools...-in/600627_0_0
Two little dabs of 2-part JBWeld epoxy in the slots for the prongs on that metal piece, Then press the metal ring back into the socket and let cure. I've never had one fall apart after that. It is a lot simpler and cleaner repair than splicing in a new socket, IMO.
Don't waste your time trying to "glue" them back together. You'll just end up fishing more bulbs out of your gauges.
The sockets are a poor/cheap design. My recommendation is to replace them. They will all fail/fall apart eventually.
I know how frustrating that can be, Good Luck
I replaced all my single-wire sockets with dual-wire versions.
This way, you avoid the grounding through the cluster back casing and the metal retainer clips. Then just link all the grounds together with one connector to a good ground source (I used the birdcage upper dash frame).
No more flickering bulbs due to poor grounding, and the dual-wire sockets (same as the Headlamps On socket) retain better in their holes.
Went with the Dorman 85805 single wire sockets but the factory replacement bulbs I had previous bought from Wilcox don't fit snug. Any slight movement makes them flicker. Any idea what bulb fits the the Dorman 85805?
I struggled with that same issue for years. Betcha I replaced more than half the sockets in my 68. Never liked it. So, a couple of years ago I went to strip lighting. Not sure if you want to do it, but here is what I did. https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...-and-tach.html
2025 c3 ('74-'82) of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2019 C3 of Year Finalist (appearance mods)
Happy Holidays!
Originally Posted by mzegeek
Went with the Dorman 85805 single wire sockets but the factory replacement bulbs I had previously bought from Wilcox don't fit snug. Any slight movement makes them flicker. Any idea what bulb fits the the Dorman 85805?
Thanks.
After many months of therapy, I have rid myself of the anxiety caused by working on those bulbs.
The next time I'll take Greg's advise and get the 194 sockets.
It's a simple circuit, gray brings power IN and black goes to ground.
'74 Instrument bulb socket
