How to change a grab handle light bulb

[Tinstar]

How do you change the grab handle light bulb. I've got two handles, one on the outside and it works well. I also have an inside handle. It does not light up at present. I think it should.

Does anyone have a coach similar to mine and know how to change the bulb (if it has a light in it)? Does a generic Amazon LED replacement bulb fit or is it something special?


2002 Monaco Windsor

[wa8yxm]

THe method I used for fixing my LED handle light may no longer be possible depending on where you live.. You will see why in a bit.

First remove the handle. Depending on who made it the light will be in either the top or bottom mounting.. In many cases there will be a 'Disconnect" just behind the mount.. Tie a string or clamp the wires RV side of the disconnect to insure they do not get lost while you have it on the bench (Picnic table makes a good bench)

IF LED.. Measure the value of hte resistor with a multi-meter. Mine was 150 ohms. it is now 450 ohms THIS IS IMPORTANT.

I got a new LED at Radio Shack (That's the impossible part) I can only give you ON LINE sources for LED's now days (All ELectronics). unless one of the few remaining Shacks is near you.

Carefully De-solder the old LED, and insert the new. bend leads slighty and TEST. NOTE: if you put it in backwards. NO LIGHT If it works, Solder and clip the leads and re-assemble.

Now I've done two RV's Mine and Fred's (you need not knwo who Fred is)

Mine had a polorized connector in the wall so I had to test and then solder

Freds has two non-polorized so I was able to solder then hook up ... Test,, and reverse if needed.

My original LED lasted just a year or so. the first replacement (Same resistor) even less. the second replacement (New resistor) is like 10 years now and still going strong. I* also went with a JUMBO, HIGH BRIGHTENESS LED (Had to drill the hole in the reflector a bit larger) but that's all optional.

Oh you can also choose the color.

If you wish to post the specifications (Forward current and forward voltage) of your LED I can calc the proper resistor but 450 to 500 should work for MOST leds.

[smlranger]

My bulb (LED) is also in the top of the grab handle. Remove the chrome top and you should find the bulb assembly there. I used this one:

RV Grab Handle Light Bulb

[Bruce_Brown]

If it's like ours, and I assume it is, unscrew the top handle holder - you'll find the bulb in there. The bulb should be a standard bulb, you'll just need to figure out which one it is. It should have a number on it somewhere.