DC Switch (Disassembly)

[Blue Ribbon]

The lamp is burned out on one of the interior switch panels for the water pump. These are the big (about 1" X 1 5/8") rocker switch. In the bathroom I have 2 light switches, a momentary switch for the water pump, and a big (same size as the switch) pilot light. The light is burned out. Tried taking the switch apart this weekend, and could not get anything to give. I didn't want to break it.

Ideas on getting it apart?

Thanks,

[Blue Ribbon]

The lamp is burned out on one of the interior switch panels for the water pump. These are the big (about 1" X 1 5/8") rocker switch. In the bathroom I have 2 light switches, a momentary switch for the water pump, and a big (same size as the switch) pilot light. The light is burned out. Tried taking the switch apart this weekend, and could not get anything to give. I didn't want to break it.

Ideas on getting it apart?

Thanks,

[Jimary]

I have taken a few rocker switches apart, they usually have a tab that snaps into a little slot on each end. I used a LITTLE screw driver from the top to gently pry the tap and slot apart while pulling the top from the bottom case working alternatly on each end. Usually the insides fly apart and are hard to get back together correctly. The bulb is probley an led and soldered in.

[bdpreece]

Look for my posts on Oct 10 and Nov 11 in the National RV owners forum regarding the water pump light. I got some good info I just have not done the repairs yet but others have.

[Blue Ribbon]

I called the manufacture. They said it was National RV (defunct manufacture of our coach) decision how to put the lamp in, so we will take apart and check. BTW, there are very good drawings on switch mfg web site.

Thanks,

[David K]

Have not looked at your drawings but, I am sure there are small springs inside of the switch -- be aware of that when taking apart -- they want to "fly away" before you realize it. Been there and had to buy another switch after the experience.

[Clay L]

I took one apart and replaced the bulb with a resistor and LED.
As mentioned above, taking it apart involved prying in the proper places on the side.

It was sort of a PITA to make the repair so when the bulb in another switch burned out, I took the easy way out and drilled the proper size hole next to the switch and installed an LED panel light (with a built in resistor) connected to the switch. It looks like it belongs there and it was a much easier fix.

[Onaqwest]

I found the whole light assembly on ebay for about $4 each. I then found the replacement bulbs (grain of rice bulbs) on-line and repaired my old ones for spares.