So my 2003 Sport trac is going dark

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Jerry R

Member
Joined
May 12, 2017
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Location
Wallingford, CT
2003 Sports trac xlt.
I'm going dark?

So what i'm trying to figure a few things with my Sports trac.

So my headlight switch doesn't seem to do anything, if the switch is off the lights are still on, if i switch to running lights or headlights nothings seems to change, is this normal? There is no backlight for these? Are there bulbs to replace?

Next question - fan control, mode, hot\cold control dial cluster > no backlight? should there be one? Are there bulbs to replace?

Next Dash cluster only lights up for battery/temp, no dodo/speedometer fuel gauges are not lit up? I'm in the dark? Are there bulbs to replace?

2x4, 4x4 switch lit up fine.
Rear bed window up/down switch not lit up? Should it be? Are there bulbs to replace?
Mirror switch should be lit up?

Everything seems to work, just not lit up? Are there bulbs to replace?
 
Headlight switch. One of the weakest electrical part ford has ever used, all the way back into the 60’s. I used to alway carry one in the glove box. A lot of amps goes though those things. So don’t f around and just change it
 
Here's a small $14 mod I did for the dark HVAC panel. Wasn't sure if I'd like it, but it's a huge visibility improvement to me.

https://www.explorerforum.com/forums/index.php?threads/custom-hvac-control-panel-overlay.415640/

http://www.whitegauges.net/products...t-Trac-White-Heater-Control-Overlay-HVAC.html

6b2453c5f9a79a931f6141d59088f6f7.jpg
 
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Stock incandescent 194's. IIRC, Sylvania 194LL (2800k). Was tempted to use Sylvania Zevo 194 (6000k) LED's, but heard LED's have dimming issues. Still can't figure out why the blue highlight is barely visible at night. No big deal. LOL

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Really a nice, inexpensive appearance mod Eddie. Honestly wasn't sure if I'd like it, but it matches the white gauge cluster well. Apply directly over the factory panel and it's important to install in complete darkness with the panel lit. As mentioned, I sprayed Windex on the adhesive for ease of movement and to remove air bubbles. Took some time, but think I got the symbols aligned close to perfect.

eBay link with free shipping:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2001-2005-Ford-Explorer-Sport-Trac-White-Heater-Control-Switch-Overlay-HVAC/401144889895?_trkparms=aid=222007&algo=SIM.MBE&ao=2&asc=20160323102634&meid=2ad06aab4eb74bb5af85b2fc3ea78694&pid=100623&rk=3&rkt=6&sd=381685756363&itm=401144889895&_trksid=p2047675.c100623.m-1
 
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The windex didnt' interfere with the sticky? Or are you saying that is how you cleaned the surface.
 
Both. Windex makes it much easier to position the decal and evaporates quickly since it contains alcohol. Used Windex a lot when applying large decals and racing numbers on uneven surfaces. Does not affect adhesive strength after it evaporates.
 
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