In the vehicles that use #194 bulbs (3.8 W) for dash lighting, dimness is a common problem. If you change to #168 (4.9W), there is some improvement but not really enough. The answer is the Malibu 4watt bulbs sold at Home Depot used for outdoor low voltage lighting. The physical size seems to be what makes the difference. They are larger but still fit in the instrument openings. Also, there does not seem to be any effect on the printed circuit so far and they have been used for several hours straight. A four bulb pack will set you back about $5.

 

How does it compare to the LEDs?

 

Another trick is to repaint the gauge inner cases and front reflector rings, as many times the color fades or they are very dirty.

 

Thanks for the info. I am also wondering about the LED's
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Cams sexy

 

Keep in mind higher wattage bulbs often run much hotter as well and could melt things. At least LEDS don't run hot but deliver more light.

 

x2

 

GE Nighthawk bulbs...30% brighter.

 

They only make interior lighting bulbs. Not bulbs for instruments and dash illumination.

AS a side note I have seen Nighthawk dome light bulbs melt the dome light assembly.

 

I have tried several different types of LED's but none were really satisfactory because they usually shine the brightest straight ahead and you need more surround lighting for this application. That doesn't say there aren't any out there that will work but I haven't found them yet.

 

There is a lengthy thread on LEDs.

I swapped my 194s for LEDs "assmeblies" that have 5 LEDs. One pointing straight ahead and four in a circular pattern. Against regular 194 there is no comparison. Significantly brighter and 1/10 the current draw.

I wanted to know how the Malibu bulb compared to LEDs. Not how the 194s compared to LEDs.

 

Not true.

They make 194 bulbs for the dash.

 

I was planning on ordering some of those 194 LED lights as well. Thanks for clarifying that you need the ones that provide 180 degree lighting for better brightness.