The Honda Goldwing’s dashboard, with its array of lights and gauges, is vital for riders. Over time, the incandescent bulbs illuminating the Honda Goldwing Dash can burn out. Replacing them with LEDs offers a long-term solution, providing brighter, more reliable illumination that should last the lifetime of your motorcycle. This comprehensive guide outlines the step-by-step process of accessing and upgrading your honda goldwing dash lights to LEDs. Whether you’re replacing burned-out bulbs or simply upgrading to LEDs, this guide will walk you through the process.
Accessing the Honda Goldwing Dash
Before starting the LED conversion, you’ll need to access the back of the honda goldwing dash. This involves carefully removing several components:
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Windshield and Mirrors: Raise the windshield adjuster levers. Carefully peel back the rubber lip from the mirror covers, then remove the covers and the mirrors themselves.
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Windshield Trim: Remove the screws holding the chrome windshield trim (and black plastic trim on older models) and carefully remove the trim.
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Adjustment Knobs and Levers: Remove the headlight height adjustment knob (and foot warmer knob if equipped), windshield adjustment levers, and vents. Remember to remove the pinch screw from the adjustment levers before attempting removal.
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Dash Cover and Dash: Gently pull the dash cover free. Remove the four black screws securing the dash to the fairing. Disconnect the speedometer cable (and tachometer cable on older models) before fully removing the dash.
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Electrical Connectors: Carefully disconnect the electrical connectors on the back of the dash. Important: Never pull on the wires themselves.
Replacing Bulbs with LEDs
Once the honda goldwing dash is removed, you can access the bulbs:
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Bulb Removal: Gently pull the bulb sockets free from the dash. Then, pull the old bulbs out of the sockets.
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LED Installation: Replace the old bulbs with the corresponding color LEDs. Note: Some LEDs are polarity sensitive. If an LED doesn’t light, reverse its direction in the socket.
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LCD Illumination: To replace the lower LCD illumination bulb, remove the front bezel and the LCD panel. Exercise caution as the gauges are delicate.
Reassembly and Testing
After replacing the bulbs, carefully reassemble the dash and related components in the reverse order of disassembly. Test all lights to ensure they are functioning correctly before completing the reinstallation.
Addressing Potential Issues
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Hot Spots: LEDs can create concentrated beams of light. Diffuse the light by lightly sanding the LED tip or applying a small piece of translucent material.
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Resistors: Some circuits (Cruise On, Cruise Set, Low Fuel) may require resistors in parallel with the LEDs to function correctly. This prevents the LEDs from staying on constantly. Consult your LED supplier for specific resistor recommendations.
Conclusion
Upgrading your honda goldwing dash to LEDs enhances visibility and provides long-lasting illumination. While the process requires careful disassembly, the results are well worth the effort. This guide provides the necessary steps for a successful conversion, ensuring your Goldwing’s dashboard remains functional and vibrant for years to come. Remember to consult your motorcycle’s service manual for specific torque specifications and further details.
