reading lights

[stiles watson]

One of the things that bugs me about my Montana (and there are very few), are the variety of light bulbs used. I am not talking about 12v lamps vs. 120v lamps. I am talking about the variety of 12v lamps. In my recessed lights, I have either 10w or 20w halogen two-prong lamps. In the fixtures over the entry, dining table, and bathroom mirror, I have the slide-in mini bulbs as do the reading lamps at bed side.

But the reading lamps in the recliner alcove have auto type bayonet connection lamps that seem to burn out quickly. Why they used a fixture with such different bulb receivers is beyond me. Each reading lamp requires two bulbs.

Other than those who have substituted LED lamps, has anyone made changes to these fixtures? Can the fixture be taken apart and change out the "guts" to receive a different 12v lamp? I would like to preserve the pewter decor but change the bulb.

[Ozz]

Yes, you can remove the bulb holder and go with something else in most cases. I made lights above our bed out of pottery we got in Santa Fe, low voltage is forgiving.
You might have to rob a new fixture to get the bulb holder and controls.

[stiles watson]

I wondered about taking it out and to a lamp "factory" to see if they had the right "guts" to do what I want. I may go with the led I found for $19.50 with 360 degree projection. That would be almost $80 for the four bulbs, a bit steep. But I am being nibbled to death with these short lived bulbs.

[blarkman]

WE picked a pole lamp with three lamps and replaced them with LED bulbs and when traveling just laid the pole lamp across the bed. It sure made it a lot easier reading when sitting in the recliners. We got the bulbs in a three pack real cheap I think at one of the discount places like LOWES.
bob

[BB_TX]

Interesting that you are having that problem. I know you spend a lot more time in yours than we do. But in 3 1/2 years and 101 nights in ours, I have had no interior bulbs go out and only one porch light bulb go out.

[Ozz]

In 'line voltage' fixtures, we use a higher voltage bulb, the light isn't as bright, but the filament is stronger and they last longer.
Here in Kansas City, we have Dave Smith the Lampmaker Co. he does custom work.
Or..you could come by my place
Clever word-smith by the way...

[stiles watson]

BB-TX, you are fortunate. We have replaced almost all the 12v factory installed bulbs. The halogen lights aren't cheap either. My take is that the initial installer paid no attention to the "don't touch with you fingers" rule. I have started replacing them with LEDs that are designed for the G4 receptacle. I have a total of 12 of the 20w halogens and 5 of the 10w halogens. I think we have replaced all but one or two of the mini bulbs. Have also replaced both scare light bulbs (we hardly ever use them either). Have also replaced one tail light and one backup light.

Blarkman, I picked up those led bulbs you used with the pole lamp for my fan light group and they work well there.

Ozz, thanks for the invite. Would like to visit you and Bruce again. Current plans don't carry us by KC just now.

[Ozz]

You might check the voltage output of the converter, it may be high, burning out the bulbs.

[stiles watson]

Thank you, I will do that. I am supposed to have a step-down converter that operates according demand or need. Nothing is certain about equipment. I am reasonably sure I have the Inteli-power 9280 by Progressive Dynamics. This 80 amp converter is supposed to have a number of safeguarding features built-in.