Hi Andrew,
I hope the following information helps. I have "hot plugged" rover clocks in the past without damage. But if concerned, disconnect the car battery before starting. Before doing this check that you have the radio/cd/cassette code as the code will need to be entered after reconnecting the battery.
Step 1. Check fuse 8, in the main fuse box, to see if it still serviceable. If blown then there probably is another fault in the lighting circuit and I would suggest that it is best left to an auto electrician.
If the fuse is OK then;
Step 2. Make sure the ignition switch is off and key removed. This removes the ignition live feed to the clock. Make sure the car lights are also switched off. This removes the live feed to the clock lamp.
Step 3. Remove the clock trim from the facia. This is achieved by placing two levers with a broad blade (to spread the load on the trim to prevent damage) either side of the trim. Gently lever the trim away from the facia.
You should now be able to see the clock.
Step 4. Carefully place a folded cloth underneath the clock to catch any screws you may let slip as they are difficult to retrieve if you let them slip into the dashboard space.
Step 5. Remove the two philips screws either side of the clock and carefully ease the clock forward, do not strain the wires.
The assumption at this point is that the lamp as "blown";
Step 5. Turn the clock so you can see the back of the clock, there should be enough play in the wires to allow this, in the centre of the clock you should see a hole (approximately 20mm across) at the bottom is the lamp. Using a screw driver in the slot in the back of the lamp, turn the lamp anti-clockwise approximately a quarter of a turn. Tipping the clock to allow the lamp to fall out. The lamp may need to be encouraged, if necessary disconnected the clock by pressing the connector release lever on the side of the block connector and pull the connector free from the clock.
Step 6. Replace the old lamp with a new lamp of the same type, voltage (12V) and wattage (5 Watts).
Step 7. Reassembly is a reversal of the above steps.
After reassembly, switch the sidelights on and the clock illumination should now be working.
Good luck.
Maurice Tindall, May 2008
