[2006_FrontierLE]

My intention was not to use LED or even post regarding this change. But my a/c controls have not been backlit for a few years. I had the dash apart for other reasons and finally decided to replace the bulbs. Only to find the bulbs are soldered to the circuit board. I then decided, if I have to use a soldering gun I might as well try to use a few of the LEDs I have laying around the shop.

I soldered a 2k resistor and used heat shrink, because that is what I had on hand, different resistors may be more ideal. Overall I am pleased with the outcome and it only took about 30 minutes. I had to line the LEDs in the exact same position so they would fit where the bulbs were originally. At first my LEDs were too bright and caused a bright spot at each location. So I used a sharpie to dull the brightness and allow it to disperse more evenly through the controls.

It is not perfect and I am not sure how long it will last, but since I have been with out lights on the A/C controls for a few years I figured it can't hurt.

 

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That's awesome, I'm way overdue for this, thanks for posting. How did you determine it needed a 2k resistor? I'm sure I have some floating around here somewhere...

 

[2006_FrontierLE]

That's awesome, I'm way overdue for this, thanks for posting. How did you determine it needed a 2k resistor? I'm sure I have some floating around here somewhere...

I guesstimated on the size resistor. There are some online calculators that can help.


https://www.kitronik.co.uk/blog/led-resistor-value-calculator/

 

[blerg]

I actually want to change the button back lights. It looks like they're in that rubber gray holder, do you think they can be removed so I can make them led's? I can never tell if my recirculating air button is on or off, the orange led is far too dim. Great link about the resistors too, clear simple explanations, thanks.

 

[2006_FrontierLE]

I actually want to change the button back lights. It looks like they're in that rubber gray holder, do you think they can be removed so I can make them led's? I can never tell if my recirculating air button is on or off, the orange led is far too dim. Great link about the resistors too, clear simple explanations, thanks.

I am not sure that would work. If I recall, there was not enough room where the existing LED lights are behind the button for anything larger.