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1985-1998 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
Pull the ashtray.
Pull the DIN socket that supports the ashtray.
Gently remove the wires from the European socket that is contained in the DIN.
Push off the retaining ring that holds the European socket/cig lighter assembly.
Pull out the European socket, tie it to the retaining ring and either save it for a friend or throw it out.
Most auto parts stores sell self illuminating US sockets. You MUST use a self illuminating socket, as the plastic illumination ring takes up the extra space of the larger European socket.
Use a round sided file to carefully widen the openning where the new socket will fit. Go gently, as the DIN is fragile. Slowly and carefully compare sizes to see when the orange plastic illumination ring fits. When that plastic ring fits snuggly, insert it. Insert the socket and place the screw backing in place. Screw the metal socket together, making sure to place the light in a corner where it won't interfere with inserting the unit back into the DIN space in the dashboard.
Make wire extensions that go from the stock Saab plug to the new US specification socket. I use solderless crimp on male and female connectors. Solder can melt in high heat. Crimps won't melt so they are safer.
Make a 'Y' type wire to allow the internal light in the new socket to ground in the same area where the light from the ashtray grounds out.
Use electrical tape to cover all exposed wire connections so they don't blow yer fuse (ask how I know). The fuse is a 30 amp, but I forget which one. DO NOT use the tape around the socket! It will burn. Just use it on the wires.
Re-insert into the DIN and enjoy a lifetime of cellphone chargers and power inverters that fit correctly and don't fall out.
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