[sixtysix]

What re the best bulbs to illuminate my instrument panel on a 66 GTO.
Thanks in advance,
sixtysix

[Peter Serio]

The original bulbs are #1895. That's what I would use. Replace all of them with new.

There are 100s of different LEDs sold as modern replacements to fit almost any old car but those do not always make the lighting better. The inexpensive ones are often way too dim. On the more expensive LEDs in old 1960s GM cars they have too much glare and those can also create bright spots on the dial, that or white halos around the inside edges of your dash circles.


Best thing to do first is replace the clear lens (if you have not already done that). I would choose a made in USA lens over a cheap imported replacement.

If you would like a made in USA lens I can help you with that.


The second thing to check is the light blue paint on the interior side of the gauge housing. Often that paint chips off or flakes away after 50 years. Sometimes rust gets in there and bubbles up the paint. On all my restorations I glass bead, re-plate the housing and re-paint that light blue color.

[roy381]

Is there a bulb manufacturer that is recommended for the 1895?

Thanks

[roy381]

Hi Pete sent u a pm

Thanks

[Jeff Hamlin]

I've been using the Sylvania 1895 Long Life with good results.

[goatman65]

I use 1816 bulbs. I think they were used in mid 60s Vettes. A little brighter than the 1895.

[roy381]

Thanks guys much appreciated

[charles bledsoe]

Pete do you use a spray can or paint with a gun? Who makes the blue paint you use. What's the difference between the 1895 bulbs and the 1816's?

[goatman65]

1895 2 candlepower 3.8watts
1816 3 candlepower 4.3watts

When I painted my bezel I used 65 earlier Pontiac engine blue, it is very close to the original bezel blue.