Clock illumination inverse

[Uboat]

I was very happy with myself when I managed to change intrument bulb for the engine temperature gauge. I had some overheating problems before, and I now don't have to use the light from my mobile phone in order to check motor temperature while driving in the dark. (1974 Elan +2 130)

I also changed the clock bulb, but I found out that there is a gremlin in the wiring. The clock is now illuminated when lights are off, independent of the panel illumination switch, and turns dark when I switch on the panel illumination. Is this a standard feature, or is it an alternative wiring? The clock is of a german make, Hientze or something like that, is it the original clock (it does not work)

How do I get the clock light to work in correlation with the other instrument illumination/the panel switch? Can this have something to do with clock failure?

/Ulf

[john.p.clegg]

Sounds to me like you have an earth problem...not unknown...try a temporary direct earth to the clock lamp earth terminal.

John

[rocket]

Hi i have the same make of clock as you,i recently had it repaired and has worked well since.Not sure if its original,but i do know a lot of our cars have them in.

[ppnelan]

Probably no need for the illumination if it doesn't work...
Mine doesn't work either (or should that be 'ether'? ), but the illumination does...
I remember reading that it is worth taking apart & cleaning (how complicated can it be? - famous last words... )before sending it off for professional repair, but I have yet to try myself.

Matthew

[rocket]

I took mine apart,lots of bits in there...the guy that fixed it charged 10 pounds,a small electrode had burnt out,which he says is common,caused by being fed too low a current,from a flatish battery...