Bypassing panel dimmer on a classic

[shed driver]

I've got a 1973 P5B coupe. The panel lights are really dim and I'd like to replace them with LEDs. There's a rheostat dimmer switch that I believe I would have to bypass in order to install LEDs. Is it as simple as just disconnecting the switch or will it need some electrical sorcery way beyond my comprehension.

I've got the car in storage at present but hoping to get it out tomorrow so I can try and update the thread with pictures and a copy of the wiring diagram. The diagram is however more of a "guide" or work of fiction as I like to call it due to 50 years of previous tinkering.

SD.

[paintman]

Quick google:
https://roverp5.proboards.com/thread/12007/panel-l...

Try the 'search' facility on that website & there's a lot more comes up.

[droopsnoot]

I've put LEDs in the dash in my Firenza which also has a dimmer. I just leave the dimmer on "maximum". Because I bought the cheap LEDs they don't dim, so if I turn it down past a certain point, they just go out.

It's worth looking at whether you have any sort of things over the bulb holders, in the dash, to colour the light. These might need to be cleaned, or removed completely and use coloured LEDs. My dash lighting still isn't all that bright as I left those in place.

[GreenV8S]

If they are LEDs, just remove the dimmer. If they're a lower voltage, fit a suitable current limiting resister in place of the dimmer.

[shed driver]

GreenV8S said:

If they are LEDs, just remove the dimmer. If they're a lower voltage, fit a suitable current limiting resister in place of the dimmer.

So do I just disconnect the wiring to the switch? Obviously I would terminate the wires, but is it likely to be that easy?

SD.

[GreenV8S]

shed driver said:

So do I just disconnect the wiring to the switch? Obviously I would terminate the wires, but is it likely to be that easy?

SD.

The old circuit would probably have 12V - fuse - switch - dimmer - bulb - ground in some order.
The new circuit will have 12V - fuse - switch - 12VLED - ground ie you bypass the dimmer.
If your LEDs need a lower voltage then you would insert a current limiting resister in the circuit ie 12V - fuse - switch - resister - LED - ground.

[paintman]

^^^What he said.
Which is exactly how my Classic Range Rover is wired.

Or just use the link to the P5 forum & ask someone that's done it on the same car as you've got.