Glareshield and panel lamp dimmer

[CoachTom]

Is there a solid state retro fit for a M20K or any work around for the two rheostats controlling the panel and glare-shield lamps?

 

The rheostats aren't popping breakers or fuses, they are inop and will not light bulbs.  12v power to them, good grounds, just internally failing.

 

Any options would be greatly appreciated!  Also, has anyone wired directly or placed a resistor inline to dim bulbs simulating a rheostat operating at 50%?

 

Thanks in advance

[N601RX]

Spruce has this single and dual channel model that is STC'd. Also the original reostats are available from Allied Electronics.

http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/elpages/maxdimminid.php?clickkey=108153

[M20F-1968]

I have an original set on Mooney Rheostats I could sell.  It would be alot cheaper than a new retrofit and if it works, you get to buy more time.  They are 12 volt.  You can call me at (617) 877-0025.  My e-mail is johnabreda@yahoo.com

Thanks,

John Breda

[fantom]

I had exactly same issue recently and after checking everything including pulling the dimmer box, it turned out to be a simple pinched wire under the glareshield on the right side.

[Piloto]

I gave up on the rheostat and just wired the lights directly to the rheostat switch. I found that I never dimmed the lights but used full brightness. Some dimmers use transistors that are controlled by the rheostat others use a high wattage rheostat. Either way is prone to fail, the switch never fails.

 

José 

[CoachTom]

José,

absolutely right, switch never fails, but for me... way too bright inside. Think i want to preserve my night vision as best as possible so when i am on short final and my headlamp burns out, i will be able to have good ground reference capability...

 

John, 

Will check all wires as Gary stated happened to him, and if no joy, will probably check with you for some rheostats...

[funvee]

I'm having the same issue and found these at AS...

http://www.aircraftspruce.ca/catalog/elpages/rheostat.php

 

It 'looks' like the ones in my M20F but not positive... and dont know what Ohm rating I need.

 

If you researched that part and know, please let me know.

 

Shawn

[Piloto]

José,

absolutely right, switch never fails, but for me... way too bright inside. Think i want to preserve my night vision as best as possible so when i am on short final and my headlamp burns out, i will be able to have good ground reference capability...

 

 

In the old days panel lights used to be red to help you maintain night vision so you could spot lakes, roads and coast contours at night for navigation purpose. But with today GPS moving maps I don't think anyone uses visual clues at night anymore (at least not myself). I remember on a couple of occassions trying to assess between a mountain against city lights on the back ground or a city lake. Wrong assumption and you may hit the mountain. Another one is mistaking a nearby road for the runway.

 

The only time I turn all the lights off is for weather assessment where there is no XM coverage (oceanic). I look for stars on the horizon for clear weather and lightning. Flying under a full Moon is like daylight, you can even see the ripples on the ocean or its reflexion.

 

José