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I just wanted to post an update for anyone interested in my experience with replacing the instrument cluster lights.
I have a 1999 9-5 V6, although I imagine they used the same cluster for more than this one year. I don't know what years have the same cluster.
I found great instructions (with expandable pictures) here:http://photo.platonoff.com/Auto/20070513.Saab_9-5_Dashboard_and_Instrument_Cluster/
One recommendation I have is to remove the cover/leather cowl around the sterring column, which is not mentioned in the directions. Makes it easier to get the cluster out. Also, the radio removal tools may be found at Walmart in the automotive department around where the stereos are (I paid less than $5 for mine).
I will double check, but I believe the bulbs I used are 17036, and I found them for about $1 each at NAPA. There are about 30 bulbs behind my cluster, but there were some missing (35 should replace all bulbs with a few left over). I replaced them all rather than run the risk I would need to pull the dash out again later (took me about 30 minutes the second time around, not much longer the first time). There is one larger bulb I thinks it's for the battery indicator and it's very obvious it's larger.
I would also suggest checking the lights to make sure they work before reassembling the dash. There was a problem with my ribbon not making a good connection and none of my cluster lights worked. I drove for a few weeks with a "tap" light illuminating my cluster.
Good luck if you attempt this DIY.
posted by 68.154.34...
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