Light Fixture Repairs

[J. Frank]

I have several light fixtures in my old Coachmen MH that do not work. Some got water in them from leaks and the slide switches are rusted to point where they will not operate. I found a source for the DBDT double light slide switch, and so I bought several. I have not found a good source for the SPDT switches that have only one light. My lights are all made by Progressive Dynamics. Has anyone found a source of slide switches for these lights? The slide switches are usually only a couple of bucks, while the fixtures are $20 +.

[BFlinn181]

A switch is a switch, why not replace it with a different style?

[J. Frank]

I probably didn't do a good job of explaining this. The slide switch is a component inside the light fixture (not separate). It is the only thing that is damaged. I should be able to replace just the switch for a fraction of the cost of a new fixture. However, it has to be the correct size and style (1/2" wide x .875" long x 1/2" deep - single pole double throw). I really don't want to buy a new fixture, as the styles have changed, and so it will not fit in with the other OEM fixtures. I have already repaired a double light fixture with a new DPDT switch for $5, which retails for $37. This is kind of like replacing your vacuum cleaner that only has a bad switch.

[BFlinn181]

You are correct, no need to replace the fixture for a cheap switch. I'd shop for a switch that will fit, even with some customizing. I'd replaced switches by shaving the hole bigger or even glueing an insert in the opening and cutting a new hole for a switch.