License Plate Light Socket Damage - Advice?
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
2004 Mercury Marauder, dark toreador red/dark charcoal interior
Born On Tuesday, May 18, 2004
Sequence Nos.: 2,991 of 3,214 ('04), 10,829 of 11,052 (total) & 926 of 980 (DTRs) & 1 of 2,000 '04s without moonroof
Purchased On Friday, October 22, 2004
Sold On Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Final Miles = 099871
6 CD Trunk Changer, Heated Seats, Alternative Auto Performance Tune, Borla mufflers (#40652),
"Powered By Ford" 2005 Ford GT Coil Covers, Aeroforce OBD2 Scan Gauge, Replacement Autometer Oil Pressure Gauge,
McGard Wheel Locks (#24130), 2005 oil filter drip deflector