Hey Guys,

Noticed that my Drivers Side Tail Light (Running/Brake), on the body, not the bumper, was out - So went and got new bulbs and removed the assembly and this is what I found - See Pics below -

I removed the bulb holder/connector and remounted the assembly - Risking getting a fix-it ticket but better then risking further electrical damage/shorting.

Do I need to be looking for a new light assembly?

Thanks for any advice!!!

In Peace and Agape,
Trav...

 

And the survey say's...!!!
Yes!
New assembly.

 

Spike,
UGH - I thought that might be the case - Can you or anyone here recommend a reliable online supplier?

Is this a normal occurance with our disco's?

Any idea what might have caused the short? - Melting???

Are there lower heat emmitting bulbs that can be used in place of the old style bulbs?
Anyone do any mods in this area?

All input is highly appreciated!!!

Thanks Spike for your confirmation!!

In Peace and Agape,
Trav..

 

Water? Seal them better.

 

LRD2&ME,

I did notice that the rubber seal around the outside of the assembly has a missing section 1/2inch or so - I've only had my disco for a couple months and I haven't taken her "wading" - so must have been the recent rain or something -

Do you recommend a good way to seal the lense/light assmebly?

Thanks,

In Peace and Agape,
Trav...

 

Normal - no. Happens an other cars and trailers - yes. Some oxidation or corrosion built up on the contacts, creating electrical resistance. The amps going to the light bulb through this resistance created heat, because power was being used. Do that long enough, and melting can happen, wire insulation can darken, fry, or melt back. Would have shown up as this light dimmer than other one (if other one does not have same problem).

Some people with boat trailers smear some vaseline around the bulb before seating it in the socket, and there is a dielectric grease that can be applied to connectors to keep moisture out. Most electrical connectors are not ferrous metals, to avoid rust.

One of the sponsors you see on banner ads from time to time is superbrightleds.com, they have a wide variety of bulbs. I switched out interior lamps for LED, they are brighter and draw less power, which will prolong the life of the dreaded multi-function module.

As to a new unit, if it can't be cleaned up, and a repair socket wired in, then yes. But not new. Get one from a salvage yard or a dismantler. A "new" one would be pricey, save your cash for the head gasket fund. Yard near me gets $10 - $30 for a tail light depending on how fancy.

 

LRD&ME I am new to the site and I am trying to make contact you but I don't have access to your email. I have a TPS question(s). Could you please email me @ reesebeeson@yahoo.com.

I apologize for high jacking this topic for this purpose. Please forgive me.
Reese

 

Get ahold of Shadowmerchant, he is parting out his truck.

 

clean it up with some sandpaper and put dielectric grease on it. I use dielectric grease on every electrical connection and bulb I replace. (except headlights)

 

You can clean that up with a file or some sandpaper.

If you don't use them, you can just swap the rear fog light socket for the burnt one. They're the same.