Changing interior lights

[RussM311]

Ok...before I try to unsnap a screw in fixture or unscrew a snap in fixture and have to buy replacements.... let me ask. I have the 3 in diameter ceiling lights in 2 rows, running the length of the interior. Pretty little clear/opaque plastic covers. Now, a couple of them have ceased to operate ad I would like to replace the bulbs. Unfortunately, there are no hints as to the proper procedure to remove the cover or bulb. Anyone have the answer? Thanks....

[PDR John]

The whole assemble is held in by a spring clamp.

To change the bulb you have to turn the outer (glass) part counter-clockwise a 1/4 turn. Then pull it down, sometimes they stick.

Sometimes both parts want to turn and I have to hold the metal part with a butter knife.

The bulbs just push in. Make sure you only use 10 watt replacements. 20 watt bulbs can overheat and melt things.

[Scottybdivin]

Sometimes, they just do not want to turn at all. I have two in our MADP that I cannot get to break loose, no matter how hard I try. I have replaced all of them with LED's except for those two. Maybe someone can offer a solution to getting them loose.

[PDR John]

You can just pull the whole assemble out of the ceiling.

It can bend the spring clips, so you'll have to bend them back into shape.

When you pull down on it gently, you can sometimes see the spring clip. Press it with a butter knife and the light assemble will pop out.

[pj54]

I had two of the glass covers that I could not get off. I used a large
channellock type plier 16" with a 4"+ jaw opening. I put a 2" piece of soft clear rubber/plastic hose over the teeth on each side to protect and grip the glass. You can buy that at hardware store by the foot ($1.00). The glass came off easy.