Greetings - I thought I'd seen a posting that went into detail on the removal/replacement of backlights (not lcd) on SC AC display - the lcd display is fine - one light out at end. Now that I've got service manuals I plan on replacing light (maybe all) in display, supergluing crack in AC outlet area, and adding that magic cupholder. Has anyone dealt with the lights? Thought someone said they were soldered in? Any help appreciated!!

Just to make sure I get "my moneys worth" - got another question for all you learned experts out there - there's a nickel-sized black plastic unknown object (looks like half a marble) on the driver's side dash up close to the windshield - what the hell is it? I don't see it in the manual and have never known its purpose? Anybody know? Again thanks

 

I have tried, but to no avail, I could could not even all the wire harnesses off to access the dash alone, it looks they are pluged in but I am not sure
SH

 

FastSC - how far did you get? I'm worried about getting the console, etc. busted down and finding that I'm sol.

 

I believe that the half marble thing on the dash near the windshield is the sensor for the automatic lights. Did the 92 models have that as an option?

Lance
98 SC400

 

Lance – that’s a good guess – it looks exactly like what you’d expect a sensor to look like. It’s even located where one should be. But I’ve searched through the owners manual, the service manual instrument panel drawings, the wiring diagrams (no mention), and even looked at the window sticker (still have it, no mention of automatic lights) and if that dude does have automatic lights it’s a well-kept secret. Maybe it was a mid-year addition that wasn’t implemented till ’93 – maybe the 93s did have it. I don’t know – beats the hell out of me?? Thanks for the suggestion tho.

 

I have a 1992 SC300 and it has that "ball/sensor" u are talking about. I have been wondering what it does b/c the '92 SC's (the SC300 and SC400) DIDN'T have automatic lights b/c they weren't available. My dad's '99 GS300 (w/ daytime running lights) has the exact same "ball" at the exact same place near the windshield and in the owners manual, it says they are the sensors that detect when to turn on the reg. lights (like u guys thought) and it also says not to cover them w/ papers, etc. b/c then they will think that it is dark outside when it really isn't. If u guys find out why we have the "sensor/ball", please tell me.
E-mail: MyLexusSC300@clublexus.com

 

That ball is a solar sensor for the climate control system. The system controls temp by heat and also the amount of sunlight or radiant heat in the cabin.



Dick

 

DickLexus – you da man! Now that I know what to look for, I found it in the wiring diagrams and you are 100% right – and it makes sense. I’ll sleep better tonight knowing what that damn thing is. Thanks mucho.

 

Glad to help. I spent many a night figuring out what it could be myself. It definitely works too. My state inspection sticker goes right over it and I found the AC was getting to cold on the auto setting. The following year I had them place it higher on the windshield and now It regulates the comfort like a atomic clock.

 

Hey guys...
I have instructions on fixing it.
I will post it in a couple of days..

 

Oh good! mine has one light out on the end too. I did not know you could replace the lights.

Thanks

 

TTT

 

When the headlights are turned on, all the console buttons (vol. control, temp. control, fan speed, FM, AM, CD, etc) light up (that green color) except my "hazard lights" button (that red triangle) Should it light up like all the other (it is prob. red though not green) or does it not light up, b/c mine isn't?