License Plate Light Socket Damage - Advice?

[jonroe]

This week I noticed that my license plate light was out. I took it apart and noticed that the lamp had partially melted the socket that plugs and twists into the lamp holder. There was black melted plastic particles all over too. The owners manual says the replacement bulb is #168 (4.9W). With the damage, this appears to be too many watts for the application. Has anyone else noted this problem with their license plate light?

I can't tell exactly which bulb number is the one I pulled out because it is quite blackened. I have a #158 (3.36W) and a #194 (3.8W) that I could use for replacement and I think I will use the #158 to avoid any more damage to the bulb socket. Any comments? I know it won't be as bright but I can't totally wreck the socket.

I had to do something similar (go to a smaller watt bulb) for the high mount brake light in my TBird because the OEM bulbs had really cooked the interior of the lamp assembly.

Thanks.

Jon

[MOTOWN]

very common on any car with a incadesent bulb, head to the bone yard search for another that hasnt been toasted, and get an led bulb problem solved!

bulb type is a 194

[fastblackmerc]

I have 194 LED bulbs that will work.

[jimlam56]

This week I noticed that my license plate light was out. I took it apart and noticed that the lamp had partially melted the socket that plugs and twists into the lamp holder. There was black melted plastic particles all over too. The owners manual says the replacement bulb is #168 (4.9W). With the damage, this appears to be too many watts for the application. Has anyone else noted this problem with their license plate light?

I can't tell exactly which bulb number is the one I pulled out because it is quite blackened. I have a #158 (3.36W) and a #194 (3.8W) that I could use for replacement and I think I will use the #158 to avoid any more damage to the bulb socket. Any comments? I know it won't be as bright but I can't totally wreck the socket.

I had to do something similar (go to a smaller watt bulb) for the high mount brake light in my TBird because the OEM bulbs had really cooked the interior of the lamp assembly.

Thanks.

Jon
Is the lamp holder melted?
If so, I would guess that junkyard CVs and GMs would fit.
By the way, I wonder how many MMs with your combo of DTR and dark interior, do you know?

[jonroe]

Is the lamp holder melted?
If so, I would guess that junkyard CVs and GMs would fit.
By the way, I wonder how many MMs with your combo of DTR and dark interior, do you know?

The actual light housing (that you see from the outside) is fine but the socket that holds the bulb is a little melted. I think the socket is still usable if I clean it up a little. But, of course, putting the same bulb back in will continue the damage. Probably an LED replacement is best.

Don't know the rarity of the DTR/dark combo.

Thanks.

[jonroe]

I have 194 LED bulbs that will work.

Can I purchase a couple from you? PM please?

[ctrlraven]

I had the same problem with mine and it got me pulled over a few times as well for a equipment repair order. I cleaned up mine as well as I could and did switch to an LED bulb. I also sealed up the housing as it was coming apart some so whenever I washed the car it would get moisture in it.

If it's too bad just get one from a junk yard donor.

[DOOM]

Haven't had or happen to me yet but this is a very common problem.

I'm going to switch to a LED light when I get around to it.

[Architect]

I have 194 LED bulbs that will work.
Is there a chart available for changing our lamps (bulbs) out to LEDs..?
Or does your FLAPS know what to give you...?
Thanks, Architect

[fastblackmerc]

Is there a chart available for changing our lamps (bulbs) out to LEDs..?
Or does your FLAPS know what to give you...?
Thanks, Architect

I have yet to see a FLAPS that has decent white LED bulbs at a good price.

The bulbs I have hurt your eyes if you look at them too long. Just need to see if they will fit in the license plate housing because they are a bit longer that a typical 168/194 bulb.