"map ligh"t fix/replacement inquiry

I'd like to replace the "map" light fixture on my '98 Ranger. It's the fixture up on the ceiling in the cab right above the middle of the back window and has a sliding switch. I suppose it could be called the dome light or the cab light but apparently it's referred to as the map light. I'm pretty sure I busted something on the fixture, like a tab or whatever, when I was in a hurry trying to pry off the cover (lens) to remove the bulb(s) one time in the past when the light wouldn't turn off even with the doors shut. The light still works but I can't replace the cover because like I said something (a tab or whatever) that holds the cover (lens) onto the base of the fixture apparently has broken and so it won't snap back on.

I read somewhere (maybe this forum) but can't find it anymore where an upgrade to these particular map lights can be done by replacing this style fixture with that from an Explorer so that it's not the sliding switch anymore but would then be pushbutton switches instead. What I recall reading is that on the Explorer fixture I'd need to clip off or cut off a couple of tabs on the fixture (or something like that) so it will fit into the Ranger. So I was thinking of going ahead and doing that if I could get my hands on the right fixture from an Explorer somebody might be parting out but I can't remember the year range of Explorer that will work for the swap-out.

If anybody knows here, can they let me know. Also, after that or along with that I'd like to change out the situation so that the bulbs are LED, if that's not a big deal to accomplish. Any comments/advice/guidance about any of the above appreciated.

sgull said:

I'd like to replace the "map" light fixture on my '98 Ranger. It's the fixture up on the ceiling in the cab right above the middle of the back window and has a sliding switch. I suppose it could be called the dome light or the cab light but apparently it's referred to as the map light. I'm pretty sure I busted something on the fixture, like a tab or whatever, when I was in a hurry trying to pry off the cover (lens) to remove the bulb(s) one time in the past when the light wouldn't turn off even with the doors shut. The light still works but I can't replace the cover because like I said something (a tab or whatever) that holds the cover (lens) onto the base of the fixture apparently has broken and so it won't snap back on.

I read somewhere (maybe this forum) but can't find it anymore where an upgrade to these particular map lights can be done by replacing this style fixture with that from an Explorer so that it's not the sliding switch anymore but would then be pushbutton switches instead. What I recall reading is that on the Explorer fixture I'd need to clip off or cut off a couple of tabs on the fixture (or something like that) so it will fit into the Ranger. So I was thinking of going ahead and doing that if I could get my hands on the right fixture from an Explorer somebody might be parting out but I can't remember the year range of Explorer that will work for the swap-out.

If anybody knows here, can they let me know. Also, after that or along with that I'd like to change out the situation so that the bulbs are LED, if that's not a big deal to accomplish. Any comments/advice/guidance about any of the above appreciated.

Click to expand...

Without the light gray lettering for those of us with a white background.

I don't know about the Explorer light but the local parts store had LED's for my F-150 dome light that just went right in and fit perfect.

I like the more yellow light in my Ranger. Fits an old truck better than bright white.

I think he broke the snap-on lens and wants to upgrade the fixture.

OP; check the "how to tech" articles. Your info might be there. Click the tab at the top of this page and follow links to electrical or interior upgrade sections.

Some people get the map light/roof console that mounts in the front near the windshield. Get one from an explorer of a similar year as your ranger. The front roof structure will be virtually identical. I know I read the tech article on that a while back.

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85_Ranger4x4 said:

Without the light gray lettering for those of us with a white background.
I don't know about the Explorer light but the local parts store had LED's for my F-150 dome light that just went right in and fit perfect.
I like the more yellow light in my Ranger. Fits an old truck better than bright white.

Click to expand...

Sorry for the weird light gray lettering there originally; didn't intend for that to come out that way. Thanks for re-copying in the next post, so people can SEE it.

Yeah on second consideration I don't think I'd be too crazy about the modern LEDs either and would just as soon stick with the old yellers in my old '98. Thanks...

ericbphoto said:

I think he broke the snap-on lens and wants to upgrade the fixture. OP; check the "how to tech" articles. Your info might be there. Click the tab at the top of this page and follow links to electrical or interior upgrade sections. Some people get the map light/roof console that mounts in the front near the windshield. Get one from an explorer of a similar year as your ranger. The front roof structure will be virtually identical. I know I read the tech article on that a while back.

Click to expand...

Thanks Eric B. I'll definitely try to track down the tech article as you suggest.

Looks like I found a fairly relevant article by following the search Eric suggested, thanks again. http://www.therangerstation.com/how-to/interior-and-interior-electronics/triple-bulb-dome-light-upgrade/