Dean_Fuller

I'm running out of replacement plugs. I have 2 extra used harnesses that I cannibalize when needed...and they have been needed. In fact their almost gone. The issue is inside the bulb plugs the tabs rust out. They are still available but $$$$. I just replaced 3 plugs AGAIN tonight! There has GOT to be a better way.

Anyone else having this issue???

blitz928

Do a search, IIRC there's a replacement plug that can be purchased at auto parts stores that will work.

928 at last

Dean,
I'll go out to the garage and get the details for you...I've got a set I picked up last year and haven't installed yet.
The parts were the ones detailed in a previous thread I found a while back.
Then you just have to rig a harness up.....

928 at last

I'm back.
The parts are from NAPA.
They're a Mercury/Nissan bit.
Part number from NAPA is 680-3296
I haven't tried them out yet, but these were the ones recommended.
Not expensive.

928 at last

Yes, you're not the only one.
Before I found the thread about the replacements, I had to go through the tailights and solder everything back to a functioning state.
This summer, I'll go back in and re&re the whole harness and plugs. With something a little less "permanent" unless a bulb goes before then....

Whitesands

I need some, I've soldered the bulbs too.

dr bob

Over the years I've posted a few notes about adding some thin weatherstrip around the rear lamps, and drilling a few drain holes in the shell where the lamp assy sits. Keeps most water out with the weatherstrip seal, and any that does get in there is allowed to drain. That should cut down on moisture accumulation and the effects on the bulb connections.

If the corrosion problem in the sockets continues, consider adding some Vaseline to the inside of the socket before installing the bulb. Make sure you have bright contacts first, then pack the bulb socket. Put the bulb in and wipe away any that squeezes out. Verify bulb function. For my way-back-when boat trailer, I used to use a thn o-ring that would add some sealing on te stem of the bulb. Installed, it would push up against the glass envelope some and keep the grease in the socket. It worked at keeping salt water out of the bottom of the socket; maybe it would do the same on the 928 sockets.

dr bob

Gasket/weatherstrip installed. Second pic is the 3/16" drain holes in the bumper shell.

Whitesands

Hi all,
I bought the bulb holders suggested (Part number from NAPA is 680-3296) 4 in a bubble pack, $12

These will fit with a small mod with a stanley knife and then will need to be spliced into the lamp loom.

These are double contact holders, on my car these were the ones that had rusted, all the single contact holders were fine.

Imo000

Me too on my brother's S4.

dr bob

Are you guys adding a thin o-ring or something else to seal the junction between the holder and the lenses?

I haven't looked at mine and therefore don't have a problem. No, I'm not that comfortable in 'denial' mode for sure.

My initial interest in the subject was to add back the Euro rear foglight function in the existing S4 housing. I think the wiring is there in the main harness to the pod, just need to locate it and follow it to the back. There are maroons around here who drive with the rear fog light on all the time in their Volvo/Audi/BMW/Benzes. As annoying as it is when following, it really does do a nice job of reminding you that there is a car there. I'm also thinking about adding the LED bulbs there and having brake lights all the way across. Each of these projects is on my 'interesting to try when I have a lot of spare time' list, which is the same as 'not for a while'. Thanks for the tips on the sockets from NAPA.

Fabio421

Yes, those work great after you trim the plastic a little. You also need to make a gasket for them from a sheet of high density foam.

rgs944

Just to update this thread for future searches. I did one side with the Nissan Tail bulb sockets last year but now it is time to do the other. It works well but Napa has changed the part #. The new part # is 680-4212. I have it on order and will update when I get it to make sure it is the same one. They also told me the new # is now cheaper than the one they replaced it with so that is always good news. $7 bucks to do one side.

Speedtoys

The new one works too, but..its still just a hack.

In the end, its the oddball locking pattern that holds them in that nobody else uses.

Welcome to a rare car.

newworld

those napa harnesses are what i got....i had several rusted out as well. my problem is how to wire correctly, as all the wires are colored different. i will post some pics soon of what i am dealing with. also, sometimes i dont use the gasket but instead found a black weatherstipping playdoo that i use also from napa. it is the bomb. works where you dont want to use sealant, and it is easily removeable etc.....keeps water out reall well.