Monitor Panel Bulb Replacement - '83

[Alsupp]

I tried a search of threads and came up empty - does anybody know how to change the burnt out bulbs for the systems monitor panel in an '83 Sovereign? It looks like there are five pop rivets to be drilled out, but that appears to hold the panel to the front facia, not allow access to replace bulbs. Does the black panel just pop off? Thanks! John

[BogieGolf]

I need to know, too! Please post the details if you find out how

[Alsupp]

OK - Man, is Airstream cool! They have on their website a "vintage trailer" tech support feature. I emailed them this question and had an answer in less than a day!

Basically, you take a stiff putty knife or the like and pry it out between the metal trim and the plastic cowl. The panel assembly is held in with four aluminum clips. Once you get one popped off, just keep working it out. Once you see the back, it is easy to tell how to get to the burnt out bulbs. I replaced the indicator bulbs (bulb #53) with ones I bought at a local O'Reilly's Auto Parts store. Slick as a whistle!

[53flyingcloud]

Alsupp is absolutely correct!
Just one word of cautions, regarding the ABS plastic panel.
You must know..
By this time, it's very fragile..so proceed slowly..I would say the better word is not to be too rough with whatever tool you use to pry the panel apart. Good Luck..
BTW, the spring loaded switch is gonna be prone to breakage due to age..I'd recommend that you find a source and, obtain a spare for that replacement..It just a matter of time..
Replaced mine last year and, it was not easy to find..
Good Luck~!

[Mike Leary]

Easy does it! Best to have two people get the panel out then one to hold it while the
bulbs are being replaced by the other. Takes two to tango with this pile of wires.
Getting all the wires tucked in is the tricky part.

[Skatiero]

This was helpful-- I know it's an old thread, but thank you!

[Skatiero]

I got the panel out and replaced all 11 bulbs😁 Working good! Thanks