Sifam AL20SQ meter question

I have a Sifam AL20SQ meter in a drip 2.0 opto build (la2a) where the meter and the bulb went at the same time (I mean to say the meter needle isn't moving).  Does anyone happen to know if the bulb being burt out can actually make the meter not do its thing?  The opto is definitely still compressing, its just not metering.  Voltage before the 470K resister is 280v and after the little bulb in the meter circuit (that is lit) its 56v.  I'd just order a bulb but I can't find any festoon blubs that don't come with outrageous shipping rates!

Thanks!

Get 3 or 4 High-Brightness white LEDs. Wire in series. Put them where the bulb was. If they don't light, reverse them.

The 470K will run a little warmer but should be fine.

The light will be a little "cooler" (more bluish), but they should last longer than lamps.

Thanks for the suggestion, I'll give that a try!