Ford 3000 diesel instrument cluster

[ron747]

I am replacing the instrument cluster on a 1975 Ford 3000 and having trouble getting the
bulbs to stay seated in the cluster. I can push the bulbs into the holes in cluster but nothing there to keep them in place.
Has anyone else had this problem or know of a fix?

 

[Midniteoyl]

I havent taken mine out yet, but do they not do the typical 'push and twist'?

 

[ron747]

I am not replacing the bulb. I am replacing the cluster and trying to transfer the bulb/socket assembly into the new instrument cluster. problem is it doesn't 'connect' but just slides in unattached and slides out as you're trying to attach the new cluster to the opening.

 

[Harry in Ky]

Maybe the holes in the new cluster are slightly larger than those in the old unit. The bulb assemblies should have a ring of small spring tabs that snap into the holes in the back of the cluster. Sometimes it's necessary to take a pair of needlenose pliers and bend the tabs outward a bit to enlarge the overall diameter providing a tighter "grip". I've had to do this a time or two.

 

[ron747]

thanks for suggestion but unfortunately the socket is made of plastic and will not bend outward without breaking.
Since this is a 1967 tractor with mostly original wiring I am considering buying a new wiring harness kit which includes the newer bulb sockets.