Community Forums

LarPar2012 · 02-15-2014, 05:23 PM

I have a 2005 Monaco LaPalma, the ceiling lights are the two bulb thin light fluorescent fixtures. The one in the bedroom stopped working, I have replaced the bulbs and still not working. Any ideas what I should check?

Thank you!

AFChap · 02-15-2014, 05:33 PM

If you are SURE it is getting power, the ballast in the fixture is bad. Brand name normally is "thin light". You can order a replacement ballast online, or for a few $$ more get a replacement fixture at most RV dealerships. ...OR... for about the same price as a new fixture I have replaced several flourescent bulbs with led strips. I buy from jirahleds.com. They have kits for both 12 and 18 inch fixtures. They bypass the ballast, and are as bright or brighter than the original fluorescents. They are great in the ceiling, and I especially like them in my 12" under cabinet counter fixtures!

becks · 02-15-2014, 05:41 PM

Here is a great solution. cabinbright.com

LarPar2012 · 02-15-2014, 05:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AFChap

If you are SURE it is getting power, the ballast in the fixture is bad. Brand name normally is "thin light". You can order a replacement ballast online, or for a few $$ more get a replacement fixture at most RV dealerships. ...OR... for about the same price as a new fixture I have replaced several flourescent bulbs with led strips. I buy from jirahleds.com. They have kits for both 12 and 18 inch fixtures. They bypass the ballast, and are as bright or brighter than the original fluorescents. They are great in the ceiling, and I especially like them in my 12" under cabinet counter fixtures!

I just got the motor home back from repair shop doing some repairs on heat pump/AC, I am wondering if they disconnected something.

These light run off DC power, correct?

Thank you!!

LarPar2012 · 02-15-2014, 05:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by becks

Here is a great solution. cabinbright.com

Thank you! I will check them out!

gruelens · 02-15-2014, 06:57 PM

With the availability of LED replacements, I personally would never spend a cent on flourescent tubes or ballasts. I have converted all 7 of mine and am glad I did.

Yes, the fixture is fed 12volts DC and the ballast converts it to 120AC going to the tubes. After converting to LEDs you do not use the ballast anymore.

fastcat · 02-15-2014, 09:37 PM

The whole LED thing is great once you figure out what to buy. That's the problem I'm having. At $60 per fixture or more it can get real expensive to experiment.

scenic route · 02-16-2014, 11:42 AM

No need to replace the fixture:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAMPQ...uwQn-uCHl58m_Q

LarPar2012 · 02-17-2014, 05:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by scenic route

No need to replace the fixture:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAMPQ...uwQn-uCHl58m_Q

Thanks so much for the video, this is a great help!! Do you know or happen to have a list of the parts? Thanks!!

scenic route · 02-17-2014, 06:43 PM

I found the video here on iRV2 by using 'LED strip conversion' in the Search block at the top of the site bar. Wiring and Connections (step by step guide) - How To Install is one source.

There are more than a few suppliers...through Amazon and other on line sources. I have not done this conversion...We seldom boondock and have no problems with our fluorescent fixtures.

pumper9x9 · 02-18-2014, 08:11 AM

Here's where I went to get a roll to replace my florescents when the ballast goes out don't get waterproof unless you need it. It's a pain to cut out the waterproofing to make the connection. They also have a lot of good info

Top 4 considerations before buying flexible LED strip lights - Flexfire LEDs, Inc.

LarPar2012 · 02-18-2014, 09:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pumper9x9

Here's where I went to get a roll to replace my florescents when the ballast goes out don't get waterproof unless you need it. It's a pain to cut out the waterproofing to make the connection. They also have a lot of good info Top 4 considerations before buying flexible LED strip lights - Flexfire LEDs, Inc.

Thank you!!