How to replace tail light sockets?

[Dibbons]

Can't seem to get the tail light sockets in project 72 SSP to accept the bulbs. Purchased some new sockets at auto parts store. How does one swap in the new ones? Any advice or tricks? Could not find a thread discussing this after a search. Thank you.

 

[Banzaiii67]

The bulb has two tabs on the brass piece a upper and lower, that needs to match up with the channels in the socket. Once you line that up, just push and twist.

 

[Dibbons]

Let me clarify, the bulbs will not press in and/or will not turn. The bases built into the tail light housing are what I am now trying to replace, not just the bulbs. After 40 plus years they are not permitting the proper installation of the bulbs, they are sticky/stuck and WD-40 offered no improvement. Thanks again for anyone trying to resolve my dilemma. I need to get the vehicle on the road tomorrow, and without tail lights I may get into a heap of trouble.

 

[Photon440]

Sometimes you have to just break the bulb and tear out the old base with needle nose pliers.

 

[The Horvaths]

The spring tabs on the sockets can be really tight BUT there is also one tab that is bigger than the others and must be aligned with the bigger slot.

 

[idrivemopar]

I believe the sockets are pressed in so removing the old ones is difficult to do because you may crack the housing. If your sockets are rusted you can clean the with a dremel wire wheel that is slightly worn down and the cone shaped on works better then the straight one. You can also use a derusting solution like evapo rust. Just seal the sockets on the outside of the housing and where the wire comes out, with something temporary like caulking so it can be removed when done, then fill up the housing and let it sit until the rust is gone.