Changing bulbs in the HVAC controls for a 1998 Pathy...

[ascdesigns]

I followed the directions from another thread (yes, I did search ) and I replaced the 4 gauge cluster bulbs the other night with the blue Autolumination 74's (tri-power) and it looks good!

Question: how many bulbs do I need for the HVAC controls on a '98 Pathy? I'm referring to the area above the stereo with three knobs: Fan, Temp and Vent direction. The lighting there is really dull and while there's mention of the HVAC controls in this thread, I don't see any confirmation that they are a) #74 bulbs and cool.gif how many replacement bulbs it would need. Can anyone help?

Thanks!

Al

[Pwnin O'Brien]

Well it looks like the '98 has two #74 bulbs which light up the three dials for the HVAC controls. I would recommend checking out the openings to see if there is enough clearance for the tri-power bulbs because the sockets are pretty small.

I also plan on swapping out the bulbs for my HVAC controls, could you please take a before and after picture so I can get an idea of the difference. That would be greatly appreciated.

[ascdesigns]

(Also posted in another thread, but I thought I'd post it here as well for better search results in the future)

OK. I have the 3-knob HVAC control panel in my Pathy and just replaced my stock #74 bulbs with the Autolumination Matrix 3 bulbs. Based on the room in there, I'm pretty sure it would fit the Tri-Powers. The only problem I see with the Matrix 3 or Matrix 5 bulbs would be that one or two of the LEDs on the side of the PCB (printed circuit board) would be blocked since they are facing directly upwards into the plastic. The Tri-Powers may disperse the light better, but I can't be certain. Sorry, no pics.

The DIY install is really easy (15-30 min depending on your mechanical ability):1) remove radio/HVAC bezel, two phillips screws on bottom, tug and disconnect the electrical connectors.2) gently pry knobs off using a small thin flathead screwdriver under the wide end of the knob 'grip', i.e. the side opposite the lighted end.3) gently lift up on the plastic tabs holding the HVAC bezel, two on top, three on bottom.4) pull away the black plastic sheet with the graphics. You'll see the two #74 bulbs just sitting there.5) don't bother trying to twist the bases out. Just grab the bulb and pull it out.6) insert your new LED bulbs. Test each one by turning on your lights. If they don't turn on, then pull it out, turn it 180-degrees and re-insert. Test again.7) reassemble everything and you're done!

Thanks,

Al

[fitzx4]

is there any chance of you posting a pic? i think we would all like to see the difference