Mysterious dash light problem
 

Lately I've been having a problem with one of the dash illumination lights at the top of the cluster on my 230CE. As I turn on the lights, the bulb on the left side won't light up. It's only after driving a while (as much as 45 minutes) does the light go on. I've tried replacing it and it still does the same thing. I've banged on the dash numerous times to see if it would light up but no luck as well. I haven't pulled the cluster out completely to check out what's going on so I guess that's my next stop.
Anyone else have similar problems?

Yeah, same problem, but other side. Can be a loose power connection or corrosion or bad ground for same reasons. Suggest that pounding the dash will enhance any cracks that may have started in the dash cover or maybe start some new ones!!

I'm not too worried about new cracks in the dash. The cracks in the dash in this car are about as bad as they get. :o

Too many things to guess about; dimmer switch, connection of bulb. filament of bulb,etc....

Pull the instrument panel off and trouble shoot from there.


http://instrument.articles.mbz.org/renew/

I had the cluster out last night and after tinkering around with the bulbs, I found that it merely the bulb holder that was not making a good connection. I bent the prongs a little one way and another and solved the problem.
Lycoming-8, you might want to check your bulb holders like I did and it may solve your problem as well.