GL1800 illuminated handlebar switches

[Lickity Split]

Is there a way to fix the illuminated backlit switches on the handlebars? Today I noticed that (I believe) there are one or two (Bulbs?) on each bar switch housing that aren’t lit up. Like one behind CB volume on the left side, and cruise control resume on the right side, going from memory. It’s not imperative that these light up, but wondering if there is a way to fix the ones that may be inoperable?

[Snowmoer]

Yes, they can be fixed. There are small bulbs in there that can be replaced. Here is the parts fisch so you can see what you need. I was not sure what year bike you have, so I just picked a year. The bulbs are #35 and #8. You will have to take apart the switch housing and there is not much room to work in there. Just go slow, and it can be done.

https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com/oem-schematic/2

[Lickity Split]

Thank you for the response! I never noticed that there were bulbs listed on the parts fiche.
I see there are at least 4-5 listed and near as I can tell they are different length wiring from bulb to connector.
I will have to study my switches in the dark again and see if I can determine which lengths I actually need.

2004 GL1800A A

[Rambozo]

You can also do an LED conversion so no more burned out bulbs.
viewtopic.php?f=15&t=63003

[Lickity Split]

Thanks for that. I think I will pass on the LEDs. Too bright and not a fan of the red color.

The pictures were very helpful though.

[Rambozo]

You can get a variety of colors and brightness, depending on what you want.

[WingAdmin]

Thanks for that. I think I will pass on the LEDs. Too bright and not a fan of the red color.

The pictures were very helpful though.

The LED conversion is definitely worthwhile. You can pick any color you want, adjust the brightness to whatever you want, and they will outlive you - you'll never have to change burned-out bulbs again.

[wingpilot08]

Thanks for that. I think I will pass on the LEDs. Too bright and not a fan of the red color.

The pictures were very helpful though.

if you are digging in that deep to replace the bulbs...the LEDs to require some soldering, but as stated you can get any color ( I just like the RED for better night vision) and will last forever....also the LEDs are much less expensive then the bulbs from Mother Honda (or whom ever sells them) Just my $.02! Good luck with whatever you decide!

[Lickity Split]

I don’t have an issue with soldering at all. Have the equipment.
What I don’t have experience with is sourcing the LEDs, or how to dim them, or even understanding their ratings/nomenclature/etc. I am ignorant about them altogether.
Plain white, to look like the stock bulbs would be good enough for me.
Short of there being a kit to purchase, I wouldn’t even know where to start. At least with a stock bulb I can order the replacement item and R & R

[wingpilot08]

The below link provides a similar LED that I used for my conversion. Prewired with the resistor and length of wire. Once you open the controls and remove the incandescent grain of wheat bulbs, there is a blue cover on the bulb that can be removed and then put on the LED to reduce the brightness. You may lose the ability to dim the LEDs but there may be a way to correct this.
Hope this helps in your decision!

https://www.amazon.com/Lighthouse-LEDs- ... 790&sr=8-1

[Lickity Split]

Thank you for the information, those seem like the way to go. Plus the price is right!! Jerry

[tamathumper]

We need a sticky or DIY topic for people who buy used bikes and are confused about which controls should be lit.