tikimitch
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1974 Go Tag-A-Long
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Post by tikimitch on Feb 15, 2016 7:32:04 GMT -8
Hi all! I have been searching the internet and cannot seem to find any info on this topic. I have three 110 volt ac light sconces in my trailer. I would like to convert them to 12v DC lamps but still use the same fixtures (just swap out the wiring and the lamp base).
Has anyone done this? If so, how and where did you buy the materials to do it?
Thanks,
TikiMitch
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Post by bigbill on Feb 15, 2016 8:48:03 GMT -8
You can or at least used to be able to buy 12 volt bulbs that will screw into the regular socket. Another option is to purchase a socket that fits the size and type of bulb you wish to use then adapt it to your light. There are hundreds of combinations possible so choose the one you wish and go for it. The sockets are available on the internet and several types can be purchased from your local auto parts store. If you have a Napa auto parts store try there. Try googling 12 volt bulbs. You might call Grainger
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chriss
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Post by chriss on Feb 15, 2016 9:49:22 GMT -8
Converting the fixtures is no problem. You can even use the old wiring as long as it's in good shape, the correct gauge, and you disconnect all 120v sources from it. You can buy 12v edison base incandescent bulbs at any rv place like camping world and walmart and some auto parts stores have them. They work great but they use too much power. Mine are 50w. I would like to get 12v led bulbs with edison base but they are spendy and hard to find, at least locally. One of my fixtures has a clip on shade so I need a bulb that is compatible.
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tikimitch
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Post by tikimitch on Feb 15, 2016 11:35:00 GMT -8
Thanks bigbill and chriss - so i can use the existing sockets (I think I will rewire them just because the old wiring has the cloth type covering on it) with a 12 volt bulb and then run the 12v DC power to it - right?
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Ten
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70 Shasta 16SC + 1964 Airflyte
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Post by Ten on Feb 15, 2016 17:26:45 GMT -8
Here is an old-fashioned conversion.... These were in the fixtures in my Airflyte. The trailer was in the woods with no hookups for 30+ years, and apparently had been "plugged in to" a 12 volt battery to run it. There were no alterations to the system, and once these adapters were changed out for regular bulbs, it lit right up on 110-V.  |
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chriss
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Post by chriss on Feb 15, 2016 18:42:20 GMT -8
Thanks bigbill and chriss - so i can use the existing sockets (I think I will rewire them just because the old wiring has the cloth type covering on it) with a 12 volt bulb and then run the 12v DC power to it - right? Yes, the existing fixtures will be fine. If you rewire for 12v, then use appropriate sized wire and fuses. A 50w 12v bulb draws about 4.5 amps vs. 0.4 for a 120v version. Most older trailers had just 120v lights with little outlets in them. |
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