P80 interior bulb repairs

[scot850]

I was asked a couple of days ago about what bulbs I use to repair the center console light for the gear shift position. I have done this once, but it is hard to do as the originals are actually spot welded to the body of the bulb holder, the same as the even more stupid expensive ashtray light around ($30). I found it difficult to get the leads for the bulb to the side of the bulb holder body, and then it was a struggle to solder it as the metal they used is too hard for soldering. I did eventually do it but the end result was poor.

For the gear shift bulb now I just get them from IPD maybe 5 at a time so I have then on the shelf. They at least offer an aftermarket one for around $6-7 US or cheaper in their sales.

https://www.ipdusa.com/products/23023/G ... umbs=0,970

IPD gear position bulb

You can use a 12-14V LED bulb from Mouser or the likes if you want to try. For me it is not worth the effort unless you want to buy Volvo OE bulbs for $15-19 each!

However, I do buy small LED bulbs to repair all the bulb holders for switches and other mainly dashboard and console switches.

Bulb types I repair

There are 2 LED bulbs I typically use. The first one below is for most of the switches:

Small bulb for most switches

Approximate dimension of the bulb:

smaller bulb length

There is a Larger bulb but I can't recall now what it was for. I think it may be in some of the radios but don't quote me:

Larger LED bulb

The smaller bulbs are relatively easy to do with a little patience and a small sharp pick , pliers and small pointed wire cutters.


Neil.