so, I pulled the bulb out from behind the dash '4x4 is engaged' symbol, as it hasn't lit up in a year or two.

now I have the bulb


and while I'm not even sure it's burnt out, how do I find a new one? what are these called?

 

It should have a number on it like 194. They are common and easy to find at auto parts store or WalMart.

Edwin

 

Looks like a 194. Pretty common bulb.

 

you're right! there's a little faint "58" on the side.

now, does that match the idea that is a 194 bulb?

searching autoparts sites, I don't see the same bulb...

 

Yes it's a 194 bulb. T10's also have the same base

 

194...and 99% of the time when they are silvery like your's they are bad or soon to be. same bulb that is in the fender markers,cab lights,and the instrument cluster.

 

I had to find a old bulb that was blackened like that, and still worked, since I don't like the 4wd indicator to be so over powering bright....I drive a lot in the dark.

 

You ought to go get some bulb condoms, like the ones Autometer sends with their gauges, to change up the colors of the bulbs. Maybe that'll help

 

Not a 194, the amperage is different, otherwise same bulb.

Manual calls for a 158.

 

Any of three wedge bulbs (158, 168, 194) will fit but, as noted by Pat Daly, they are rated at different wattages.

At 14 volts, the approximate wattage for three different wedge bulbs is:
158 - 3.4w
194 - 3.8w
168 - 4.9w

The heat from a bulb with a higher wattage rating than the specified bulb can cause serious damage to surrounding plastic parts! Ask me how I know...

The moral is to stick with the specified bulb -- in this case a 158 and not a 194 or a 168...

 

I went to all LED bulbs for the interior lighting and outside service lights on my toy hauler. Nice and bright. Nice and cool. Easy on the batts when boondocking. But in this case, the stock 158 would be the best choice.

 

I did the same thing, but the 4wd light was just offensively bright. So that is why I went with an old blackened bulb....still bright but at least it doesn't hurt my eyes.

 

Call me silly but one of the things I love about the 1st gens is the 4x4 indicator. It's just cool!

 

I agree....the 4wd indicator is very cool!