Neon Light General Questions

(1997 and 1998 Generation II tail light assembly)

P/N F7LY 13A565 AAA thru AAF

Moisture is the number one reason for the inverter (ballast) to fail.  For Reliability reasons all moisture must be removed before any inverter is replaced. 

Each inverter (ballast) has two circuits, one to start the neon glow and the other to maintain the glow. Because of the internal circuitry, the ballast can not be tested like one would think.

As long as there is power and ground going to the inverter and the neon bulb is not broken (Glass inside the light housing) Then in most cases a new inverter will solves the problem.

Ground Screw on the base plate for the inverter: (Wire Mesh)
This ground screw is for EMI purpose. (Radio interference) and has no affect on neon operation other then shorting the inverter if water is inside the housing.

There are two fuses in the system, Fuse #31 is for the parking lights and fuse #32 is for the brake lights. On the average, if you are experiencing symptoms similar to item #8 below; check both fuses for condition.

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The following questions are asked to help determine your light condition.

1. What area of the country do you live in? (Does it rain often?) See item #2

2. Is there water or moisture inside the light?
(This is a sign to add drain/ vent holes)

3. Does the neon bulb flash at all when brakes are applied?
(This is a sign of an inverter gone bad)

4. Can you see a glow from the bulb ends when the parking lights or brakes are applied?
(This is a sign of an inverter gone bad)

5. Behind the trunk lid cover is the inverter input connector, (Three wire) Do you have power and ground?
(9.5v min is needed to power the inverter)

6. Does the reflector have what looks like mold or black lines inside?
(This is a sign of moisture; Recomendation: Add drain/vent holes)

7. Do you see any glass inside the light?
(Does the glass look Cylindrical in shape?; if it does you will have to open the housing to replace the bulb)

Testing the bulb:  Have a local neon shop hook up one of their inverter while the light is on the bench. Most shops have inverters that put out 2000-5000v with variable current. This device is perfect for testing the bulb. Alternate method: Most neon shop also have a high voltage wand. This wand can be used if the bulb has been removed from the housing. Check with your local neon shop to see of they can help.

8. If your tail light fuses are blowing; Disconnect the inverter connector and replace the fuses. Does the lights now work normaly?
(If yes, This is a sign that your inverter has gone bad)

9. Does your light have issues with cooler temperatures. Or maybe the neon just stops working when the temperature drops.
This is a sign that the inverter (Ballast) has been weakened or damaged.

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