Tail Light Bulb

Replace the tail light bulb on a 1972 Ford F-100 by accessing the bulb socket from inside the truck bed or through the rear exterior lens assembly.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail light bulb × 1 — 1157 dual-filament bulb

Preparation

1. Turn off all exterior lighting and remove the ignition key.
2. Lower the tailgate for better access to the tail light assembly.
3. Determine if your truck has Styleside (standard) or Flareside bed configuration, as access methods differ slightly.

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the tail light assembly
   For Styleside beds, locate the tail light assembly mounted on the rear bed/cross panel. For Flareside beds, the lights are mounted on the rear fenders. On most 1972 F-100 models, the lens is accessed from the exterior by removing mounting screws. For Flareside beds, the lights are mounted on the rear fenders. On most 1972 F-100 models, the lens is accessed from the exterior by removing mounting screws.
2. 2

   Remove lens mounting screws
   Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screws securing the tail light lens to the housing (typically 3-4 screws depending on bed configuration). These screws are located around the perimeter of the lens assembly on the exterior face.
3. 3

   Remove the lens assembly
   Gently pull the lens assembly straight away from the housing. If the lens is stuck due to age or corrosion of the gasket, carefully use a flat blade screwdriver to pry between the lens and housing at the edges. Work around the perimeter to avoid cracking the lens.
4. 4

   Remove the failed bulb
   Locate the bulb socket in the housing. Press the bulb inward while rotating counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn to release it from the bayonet socket. Pull the bulb straight out of the socket.
5. 5

   Inspect the socket
   Examine the socket contacts for corrosion, heat damage, or discoloration. If corrosion is present, clean the contacts with a small wire brush or sandpaper. Check that the socket is not cracked and the wiring connections are secure at the rear of the housing.
6. 6

   Install the new bulb
   Insert the new 1157 dual-filament bulb into the socket. Align the offset pins on the bulb base with the slots in the socket. Press the bulb inward and rotate clockwise approximately 1/4 turn until it locks into place.
7. 7

   Test bulb operation
   Before reinstalling the lens, activate the tail lights using the headlight switch (tail/parking lamps operate independently of the ignition switch). Verify the bulb illuminates. Test the brake light function by having an assistant press the brake pedal, and test the turn signal if applicable to this circuit. Turn off all lights before proceeding.
8. 8

   Reinstall the lens assembly
   Inspect the lens gasket for deterioration. If the gasket is cracked or hardened, replace it to prevent water intrusion. Position the lens over the housing, aligning the screw holes. Install the mounting screws (typically 3-4 screws) and tighten securely with a Phillips head screwdriver, but do not overtighten as this may crack the lens.

Reassembly

1. Ensure the lens is seated evenly against the gasket with no gaps that would allow moisture entry.
2. Verify all screws are snug but not overtightened to avoid lens damage.

Verification

• Perform a complete lighting check with the engine running: tail lights, brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights if integrated into the same housing.
• Inspect the lens installation from the exterior to confirm proper sealing and alignment.
• Take a short test drive and verify all rear lighting functions operate correctly during normal use.

More procedures for this vehicle