replacing dimmer switch 95 850

[etzal]

Recently the dimmer switch that controls illumination to the instrument panel failed. I disassembled the old one to see if it was repairable. I was really amazed to find a tiny circuit board with a power transistor and heat sink inside. Instead of a simple rheostat it uses a pulse switching circuit that vary the current to the lights. I decided it wasn't worth the effort to find the component that failed. Instead of getting a direct replacement for an 850 I bought one for an S70. Suppose to be improved over the 850.

In the photo the disassembled switch for the S70 is at the top the one for the 850 at the bottom. Note the big heat sink. I did not like that the case was tightly sealed so I drilled some ventilation holes. Both switches are made by Alps (Japan). They have the same serial number and pin configuration. However, in order to fit the new switch you have to shave off one of the keys on the female connector.

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The new switch will not fit in the original location (its too long) but I found a place for it in one of the spare slots to the right of the headlight switch. Also the new switch is gray if that is of any concern.

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1995 850 GLT
238000 miles

[95bolvo]

i'm having the same problem with my 95 850. how's the best way to get that switch outta the dash ?

[FCPEURO]

You just pry it out. It is held in by friction.

[Ozark Lee]

The rear fog light switch needs to come out with it, the dimmer is more or less physically nested into the back of the fog light switch. Otherwise, as said, they just pry out. A bone tool is perfect but I don't have one and I am just very careful with a small screwdriver so as to not mar the dash.

...Lee

[iancam33]

How much does a dimmer switch cost I have the same problem