ONE RELUCTANT DASH BULB-CANNOT GET TO IT-THE ONE ON THE HVAC CONTROL BEHIND THE WORD DEFROST.WHAT'S THE SECRET?

[Norman Silverman]

HELLO ALL

Today I opened up the dash on my 64. I took off both the top and the cover plate under the steering column. I did this because several of the LED bulbs I had previously installed had burned out, so I replaced them with others from another manufacturer. 

Here's my dilemma: I cannot reach the bulb socket that sits behind the word "Defrost" on the HVAC control panel. I even took out the headlight switch to gain more access, but I can't reach the socket firmly enough to twist it off. 

Other than growing longer fingers, what's the secret? I tried using a piece of heater hose to clamp on to it, but I am afraid of jarring the wire loose in the process. Has anyone done this? Is there a tool/technique that you have found to be successful?

All replies appreciated. 

Norm

[Jason Edge]

Norm, I have the luxury of approaching them dead on with the complete dash laying on my garage floor and always use a very long needle nose pliers to reach in, twist and turn. These may be too long to reach with dash in placed, but I also have some very long needle nose pliers with both a 45 degree and 90 degree angle. Those different angled needed nose pliers, with a long extended mirror and good light would probably give you access. 

[Dennis P. DiBari]

Hi Norm,

Jason's idea is excellent.  I also replaced some dash bulbs and only removed the cover plate underneath.  They are difficult to say the least.  I recently purchased a pair of pliers that he mentioned and they may do the trick!  Glad you kept your 64 Caddy!!!!!

Dennis DiBari