Mike Noel wrote:
Anyone here know how to access and replace/repair the panel dimmer rheostat
in an Archer? It still controls the panel lights OK but does not switch on
the position lights. My best guess is I'll either have to be a
contortionist laying on my back under the instrument panel, or I may need to
remove the bottom radio tray.


Mike,

Yes, our friends at Piper are quite the sadists. First you need to
disconnect the battery. You will be working with the one and only hot
wire going to the instrument panel for the main switch.

You next need to free the switch assembly from the panel. The 4 screws
in the face are the easy ones. There are also 3 (or 4?) ABOVE the switch
assembly. Generally, you need to remove the bottom radio (or whatever
occupies that space). Once the bottom unit is removed, you either can
access the screws with a stubby Phillips or a 90 degree phillips through
an opening in the tray, or you need to take the screws put of the front
tray mount and try to push it backwards to get access.

After it is free, you then need to push it back and then work under the
panel (upside down) to get the dimmer/switch wiring undone. I believe
the mounting screws are in the front but I cannot remember. The rocker
switch screws are in the front.

There is a used one up for auction on e-Bay:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/PIPER...5fPartsQ5fGear

Good Luck,
Mike