05-12-2008, 05:55 AM
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Registered User
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Join Date: Sep 2007
Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Posts: 92
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 Quote:
Originally Posted by Bob Sacamano
Have you checked your local auto parts store for a replacement socket? Just this morning I found a great selection at an Advance Auto Parts, and with just some simple mods was able to replace the socket in the center brake light on my '87 Spider. First time in 10 years it's worked, and I spent ~$3. My '74 Spider has some dodgy sockets, too, and when I get to that task, it will be more of the same for me. No more wire-brushing corroded contacts, the new sockets are usually plated to resist corrosion, and the new springs make better contact with the bulbs.
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Yes, I did. I tried several from the local auto parts store. There is very little clearance behind the taillight assembly on the '82 era spider so none would work. They are all too long.  It could be made to work if willing to drill a hole in the sheetmetal but then the socket end would protrude slightly into the trunk area. The stock socket sticks out the back only about 1/2 inch and the connections are at a 90 degree angle. Some models of the Ford Taurus and Camaro/Firebird use a 90 degree angle socket but I'm guessing they will still be too thick. Did you use one from Advance Auto that had a 90 degree connection? If so, that may work. All the ones I found were straight  (which makes them too long).
Thanks, I appreciate the help.
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