Yes, if you use higher wattage bulbs, plastic parts will melt and make things even dimmer. Evidently, this has happened in the past on mine. Recently, I have been trying to locate replacements for the two main bulb-surrounds in my instrument cluster. They are easily removed and look like cubes with one side out.

Anybody have some in good shape?

Also, I have heard that touching up the needles with new flourescent paint makes the guages appear brighter.

__________________
Sam

84 300SD 350K+ miles ( Blue Belle )