audi4kq

I just picked up an 87 5KTQ wagon and am trying to go through it all and get everything working properly again. The climate control has some issues with the display being very very dim until I turn on the parking lights or headlights, then it becomes bright and readable. Any ideas? Also is there a way to just put a manual climate control in there? I'd much rather have that instead of the digital setup. Did they even come manual on a 5000 or would even like a 80 or 90 fit in there? Any insight would be great! Thanks!

yota-toy

I'm pretty sure that converting that system to manual is not worth it. The auto climate control uses vacuum servos which would have to be replaced and I'm not fully sure that all of the components used are the same as the manual systems found in the coupe or 80/90 models.
I felt the same way as you do regarding the complexity of the auto climate control system but have managed to come to peace with it now that i understand it somewhat. I had a bad servo board in by 5kq and wired up an auxiliary board that was operated by a switch on the dash that made all the difference. The system in my 5ktq works as it should (which is kind of annoying) but if left alone it does it's job and I don't worry about it.
No ideas regarding your dimming problem, sounds like it's within the head itself as it is getting the signal from the dimmer switch. Is the display adjustable?
If you don't already have a Bentley, get one (both). This book is invaluable! plus you might as well get yourself an ISV, you'll probably need it, lol

RussB

With exterior lights off, the climate control LED should be bright. With parking lights on, climate control LED should be dim.