66 electroluminescent dash- without factory radio?

[kr2006]

Hello all,
My 66 Charger has no factory radio- it's MIA...and the dash lights/console/clock lights are inop. Fuse is good. I understand that one circuit controls all the electroluminescent lighting (dash/radio/console/clock), and I'm wondering if a factory radio needs to be installed to complete the circuit. I'm trying to get as much information as possible before tearing into the dash and power pack / transformers.

If the radio is essential to the lights working, any suggestions for a bypass?

I bought the Charger several years ago from an estate, and it had been in storage since 1970. Any hope finding the original radio is long gone... 

Thanks in advance for your help!

[Topher]

You can find original radios either in here, or over at www.66-67charger.com There's a wealth of people in both places to help you. First thing to do is see if the power pak is still in the car. Center right of dash, just left of the glove box is where you'll find the power pak and the tach sender mounted. Easiest way to find them is to go from the passenger side an lay on your back in the floor and look behind the dash panel.

Got pix of the car?

[A383Wing]

radio does not need to be there for other lights to work. Each system is separate.

think of this lighting system like the old style Christmas lights..if one goes out, all go out..you will need to find out which part is shorting out if possible. I can rebuild the power pack.

email me is ya need more help

Bryan

[ODZKing]

The EL dash could have several thing wrong withit.  As I understand, the EL does not work, correct?
First and easiest, check the healamp switch.  They go bad and get dead spots in them.  If you are fairly certain that it all right, it may be the power pack.  The caps go when they get old.  Several here rebuild them. A383Wing on here is one.  BTW, be careful, because if it is working, it something like 220 volts.  It'll knock you on yer arse.
Only way really to test that is with a VOM.  And no, the radio does not have to be in it for it to work, but if one of the gauges, or shift indicator (assuming you have floor shift) or even a clock EL is shorted, that would also do it.
For more info see: http://www.thegaugedoc.com