Need Light Bulb Replacement Help!
Pro
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 620
Likes: 2
From: San Antonio TX
There is probably a different way, but I just use a torx screwdriver and take out the entire lens. After it's out, I remove the socket and then clean the inside of the lens with warm soapy water and a soft cloth.
Thread Starter
Cruising
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
Thanks. I got a torx but still cannot get the lens off. What am I doing wrong? It is like the lens is SUPER GLUED in place. Has yours ever been hard to get off--remember we're talking about a 1973. Any other ideas or details would help. Thanks again.
Thread Starter
Cruising
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
Thanks guys!!! I FINALLY got the lens cover off. YEA!!! It looks like maybe I was struggling because they put it back on too soon after painting the car--it was in there pretty tight. Anyway, only problem now is getting the bulb out. Does it pull, turn or what?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 8,339
Likes: 24
From: I can walk to MA
Bulb - push and twist left like most taillight bulbs.
Sometimes the old metal sockets get corroded. If the glass part
of the bulb breaks loose, you'll have to grab the metal base
with some needle-nose pliers and work it out. You gotta push in
a bit - twist left - then pull out. All of the bulbs in my 70 were
corroded into the sockets. Of course, this may be the problem
with the bulb not working, rather than a blown bulb.
It should be interesting to note (no-one has yet) that it varies through the years.
To change a 68-73 bulb, remove the lense - replace bulb.
For 74-82, the bulb is in a plastic twist-lock socket that is
removed from behind the bumper.
plastic bumper - plastic socket
metal bumper - metal socket
Sometimes the old metal sockets get corroded. If the glass part
of the bulb breaks loose, you'll have to grab the metal base
with some needle-nose pliers and work it out. You gotta push in
a bit - twist left - then pull out. All of the bulbs in my 70 were
corroded into the sockets. Of course, this may be the problem
with the bulb not working, rather than a blown bulb.
It should be interesting to note (no-one has yet) that it varies through the years.
To change a 68-73 bulb, remove the lense - replace bulb.
For 74-82, the bulb is in a plastic twist-lock socket that is
removed from behind the bumper.
plastic bumper - plastic socket
metal bumper - metal socket
Thread Starter
Cruising
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
The Job Is Done!!
Lights and turn signals are now working. As someone said in another thread, PATIENCE goes a long way when working with these older cars--but isn't it fun!! Thanks for all your help out there--you guys are great. 
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