How to convert to LED lighting
Hi, I think some of you will be interested in how I converted my RV lights to LED. I initially tried 12 volt LED bulbs about 5 years go, and they were not satisfactory: they were expensive, didn'...
Forum Discussion
NetBoy wrote:Mello Mike wrote:
I like your idea of using silicone adhesive. My LEDs came with velcro tape. They seem to be holding up well so far, but I have doubts once the temps here hit the 100s.
LED Retrofit and 12v Outlet Installation
Yeah, the LED panels actually get fairly warm in use... add the heat from warm weather, and the adhesive on the factory double-backed foam tape softens and turns loose. The foam tape might work better on a flat surface, but I have these LED panels applied to the convex reflectors of my light fixtures -- so just the edges of the tape are doing anything.
I tried hot melt glue, but some of those panels eventually came loose also (especially the porch light which is exposed to sunshine). I think this blue silicone adhesive will do the job, but if it doesn't work out I'll buy some high-temp silicone. The nice thing about silicone is you can peel it off if you need to change out a panel.
RTV Silicone is good for 400° F. (the standard)
High Temp RTV Silicone is good for 650° F.
Your lights will never see anything close to 400°, Just use the Standard RTV but you need to CLEAN both contact surfaces really well (including oils from your fingers while cleaning and applying the RTV.
Most likely the painted surface of the Fixture lens is to smooth to allow a good bond.
3M makes a line of Auto Body trim adhesives foams with PSA, any automotive paint supply houses carries this item. Cut to size to fill the "Void" between the housing curvature and the flat LED panels.
