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View Full Version : Converting recessed lights to Halogen G4? Anyone been there, done that?



stormchaser
07-13-2012, 01:36 PM
As we all know, the long tube style standard screw base 32v bulbs are incredibly hard to find and when found, every expensive. I am considering converting them over to G$ halogen but hoping I have the right idea.

Start with an adaptor like this:
http://i.ebayimg.com/t/TEN-LED-Halogen-Light-Bulb-Lamp-Adapter-E14-MR11-G4-GU4-SES-2-Pin-GU53-Socket-/00/s/OTYwWDEyODA=/$%28KGrHqR,!mIE9JBsBfNPBPW%29B1H!wg~~60_57.JPG
http://www.ebay.com/itm/TEN-LED-Halogen-Light-Bulb-Lamp-Adapter-E14-MR11-G4-GU4-SES-to-2-Pin-GU53-Socket-/390377641065?pt=UK_Light_Fittings&hash=item5ae4521469

Then use these bulbs:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/G4-JC-Type-Halogen-Lamp-34V-20W-20-watt-Light-Bulb-/350018144431?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item517eb508af

Anyone done anything like this? How were your results? I can't seem to find any 32v bulbs more than 20 watt...will that be bright enough? Anyone have a source for the adapters where I don't have to order 10 from Hong Kong and wait forever?

GJH
07-13-2012, 04:47 PM
You can get standard screw base 34 volt bulbs as bright as 100 watts.

My opinion is that you do NOT want to convert to halogens! A PO did that on my boat and they are a PITA : very hot, and the pins can be fussy with any corrosion. They do give off a nice warm light though. Getting rid of them all is on The List, albeit about the bottom of page four.

stormchaser
07-13-2012, 05:44 PM
The problem is standard screw base incandescent bulbs don't fit in these housings. They used tubular bulbs, like of like appliance bulbs...and those are NLA. Looking for smaller (physically) bulbs and figured this might be the easiest/cheapest route. Any thoughts?