What is this wire?
 

When I pulled out the instrument panel 6 weeks ago, I ether took this off the back or it had just been hanging there. (In other words, I forgot!)

The black wire (probably 12 gauge) disappears up the steering column. The lug on the cylindrical terminal doesn't have continuity with either of the light bulb terminals.

So what is its mission in life?

Re: What is this wire?
 

I'm betting that is the fiber optic cable that illuminates the shift indicator on top of the column and not a wire. If so, it should plug into the back of the gage cluster where it gets its power. I'm not sure what hole it goes in, but it would be one that is powered up when the lights are turned on.

Re: What is this wire?
 

That makes total sense and I feel like a dumb a$$. Pretty high tech for 1969.
Don't remember if the gear indicator ever lit up, but at least I know how to check it now. Thanks!

Re: What is this wire?
 

Agree with sick472
The bulb gets power from the clucter when installed
Fiber optic to indicator...dont bend it...

Re: What is this wire?
 

Fyi, it doesn’t actually “ get power” from anywhere. It “looks” at an illuminated light source (instrument bulb) and transfers the light through the clear conductor. When it hits the raw end, it becomes an illumination itself.
Fiber optics were out and used in many applications long before we learned that we could communicate over them. ��

Re: What is this wire?
 

My cable looks like it was pinched, but it still works. Will check it for brightness tonight. Also, its special bulb holder doesn't snug up in the panel as well as I'd like. All my others are new and tight. I may use a dab of silicon sealant.

Re: What is this wire?
 

If the end is scratched or hazy you can polish it to increase the light output

Re: What is this wire?
 

Alcohol wipe like you use on your glasses does a good job too.

Re: What is this wire?
 

Try bending the little tabs on the socket a bit. Has worked for me but not always.