I am trying to replace the instrument cluster bulbs in my 81 2WD SR5 Longbed I took out all 12 bulbs and the have number 158 on them (which is the bulb number, i know)

BUT A few websites say that it takes a 194.

What does YOUR 81 have in it?

What is the difference between the bulbs?

My dash lights are EXTREMELY dim. some are burnt, maybe one or 2...could this also be a problem with the dimmer switch?

 

I don't know what bulbs are in my truck, but my 81s dash lights are bright enough. I don't even have them at the brightest setting.

 

mine are at the brightest setting and they are basically off. that's how dim they are.

 

Hello Weaselman, I have a similar issue. My dashlights (only the ones that are supposed to light up the gauges) dont work. I switched out the dimmer switch with a different one , no luck, I replaced any suspect bulbs, no luck or no light I should say. Anyway the bulbs in my 79 longbed 4x4 have the bulbs that say 158 on them, the bulbs out of my 1980 parts truck don't say anything on them but look the same. I am not that experienced of a mechanic but it sounds like maybe your lights are not turned up all the way, have you ran your dimmer switch with it dangling from the plug in so you can see the little spring and the contact points ? Good luck - Yedi P.S I am up by Bellingham

 

my 81 had 194's

consider converting to LED's, you can get the set off ebay for about $10
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f114...s-swap-262525/

 

just swapped out all of mine with 194s. they work fine.