Hello,
I have a 1969 Cutlass S.
In the dark with the headlights on I can see the fan speed control switch because it illuminates from the semi transparent glass from behind.
But the levers to the left of it:
1- the upper one controls operation (like off, heat, defrost, vent, ...)
2- the lower one controls temp (cool to the left and heat to the right).

Those 2 levers seem to be completely unlit. In the morning I just have the remember that defrost is 2 to the right.

Is this how it was designed to be or am I missing a burned out light somewhere?

If it is the stock design has anyone improved this deficiency?

Thanks,
Dan

 

I think something is burned out. I have a 72 and surely it's not that different.

 

I share your frustration and am also interested in a better way...

I have removed the heater control head unit and by design there is only the one light bulb behind the clear glass section. Due to the sliders being in front of solid metal , the only way I can see the slider positions is to turn on the dome light/courtesy lights. Not a good option while driving down the road at night.

I suppose it may be possible to splice another wire with a light bulb and position it behind the slots for the sliders. It would not tell you the name of the slider selection, but at least you could see where the sliders are positioned.

 

You can always get an aircraft style post light, drill a hole and wire that in.

http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalo...riorA350CN.php

 

Looks like they changed the lighting scheme over the years. The 68/69 heater controls were backlit and did not have the flood lighting from the top front of the unit. There are no floodlights for the wiper or headlamp switches either for the 68/69 years. I wish we had the floodlights - it is a better design.